Chelsea Close In On João Pedro Signing In Major Summer Swoop

Chelsea have reached an agreement to sign Brazilian forward João Pedro from Brighton. The player will join the squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. The 23-year-old will complete his medical in Brazil before travelling to sign a long-term deal, after turning down Newcastle’s advances to secure a move to Stamford Bridge.

According to a previous report, João Pedro favors a move to Stamford Bridge.

TRANSFER AGREEMENT SEALED

Chelsea have agreed to pay Brighton a fee in excess of £50million for João Pedro, with the forward expected to sign a contract running through 2032. While Newcastle United also made a bid for the Brazilian, Pedro was clear in his preference for Chelsea. The player’s medical will take place in his native Brazil, before he travels on Tuesday, ahead of an immediate link-up with Chelsea’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup. Registration paperwork must be completed in time for him to be eligible for the tournament, which begins this week in the USA.

A previous report confirmed Brighton turned down Newcastle United’s bid for João Pedro.

WHAT JOÃO PEDRO BRINGS TO CHELSEA

João Pedro arrives at Stamford Bridge after an impressive spell at Brighton, where he scored 10 goals and provided 6 assists in 27 appearances last season. His ability to play as a striker, attacking midfielder or on the left wing gives manager Enzo Maresca additional attacking options. He will join a young and dynamic group of forwards that also includes Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, Nicolas Jackson, Cole Palmer, and Pedro Neto. Last season, Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League, securing a return to the Champions League after a much-improved campaign under Maresca.

A previous report confirmed that Chelsea finished the 2024/25 Premier League season in fourth place.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CHELSEA AND JOÃO PEDRO?

João Pedro’s first involvement could come as early as Friday, when Chelsea face Brazilian side Palmeiras in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final in Philadelphia. Palmeiras are currently fourth of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 2 points behind Flamengo, while Chelsea will look to kickstart their summer with a trophy. Whether Pedro is match fit enough to feature remains to be seen, but his long-term commitment signals Chelsea’s intent to build for the future and compete for major honours both domestically and internationally.

According to a previous report, Chelsea will play Palmeiras in the Club World Cup quarter-final.