Chelsea Chase Joao Pedro, Move for Brighton Striker After Bynoe-Gittens Signing

WHAT HAPPENED?

Chelsea have stepped up their efforts to sign Joao Pedro from Brighton, making the Brazilian striker their top attacking target after completing a deal for Jamie Bynoe-Gittens. The Blues now appear to be in advanced negotiations, hoping to beat Newcastle United, whose recent bids were rejected by Brighton. In the last 24 hours, Chelsea have made Joao Pedro their main focus in the transfer market.

Having just secured the signature of Jamie Bynoe-Gittens from Borussia Dortmund, the club have intensified talks with Brighton for the 23-year-old Brazilian forward. Chelsea’s initial bid of around £58 million was turned down, with Brighton holding out for a fee closer to £60 million while Joao Pedro favours a move to Stamford Bridge.

According to sources, Newcastle United had previously made two unsuccessful attempts to sign Joao Pedro, but Chelsea are ahead in the race for the Brazilian.

WHY IT MATTERS

This transfer development comes at a key moment for Chelsea. Last season, the team struggled to find consistency in attack, finishing in the Champions League places but failing to be a threat to Liverpool’s title and looking to rebuild under new management. Joao Pedro was one of Brighton’s standout performers, notching 16 goals and four assists across all competitions, and his versatility and energy made him vital to Brighton.

Chelsea are ready to offload both Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix this summer, and Pedro would fill a crucial gap in the squad. Newcastle, meanwhile, are looking to find a backup to Wilson and Isak as the team struggled with a busy schedule last season.

With the transfer window set to open next week, both clubs’ summer recruitment strategies could quickly shift depending on the next move in this transfer saga.

WHAT NEXT?

Chelsea’s next match will be against Palmeiras in the Club World Cup, as they prepare for a season aiming to break back into the Premier League’s top four. Joao Pedro will have to return with Brighton after the Brazil international went on holiday following the PL season. Talks with Brighton for Joao Pedro are ongoing, with Chelsea expected to submit an improved offer soon. If successful, Pedro could join the squad before their Premier League opener in August.

For Brighton, losing their top scorer would be a blow, leaving them searching for a new attacking star ahead of their first match against Aston Villa.