João Pedro Completes Chelsea Move in Record-Breaking Deal

Chelsea have officially signed Brazilian forward João Pedro from Brighton for up to £60 million. The 23-year-old completed his medical in the U.S. and will sign a long-term contract until June 2032.

According to a previous report, João Pedro is set to sign a contract with Chelsea until June 2032.

WHAT HAPPENED?

After weeks of negotiations, Chelsea agreed to pay Brighton £55 million upfront, with £5 million in potential add-ons, for João Pedro. The striker, also tracked by Newcastle, chose Chelsea over other clubs. He completed his medical in the U.S. and will join his new teammates in Philadelphia for Chelsea’s next Club World Cup match. His seven-year contract highlights Chelsea’s confidence in him and their future plans.

Brighton agreed to sell João Pedro to Chelsea for a fee in excess of £50 million, as confirmed by a previous report.

JOÃO PEDRO’S IMPACT AND CHELSEA’S SEASON SO FAR

João Pedro’s arrival comes as Chelsea aim to improve their attack after a tough 2024/25 Premier League season. Chelsea finished fourth, clinching a Champions League spot, as detailed in previous reports. Their strikers underperformed, and Christopher Nkunku’s future is uncertain. João Pedro scored 16 goals and provided four assists for Brighton last season, contributing to their mid-table finish.

As noted in a previous report, João Pedro’s versatility and creativity are expected to boost Chelsea’s attack and provide tactical flexibility.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CHELSEA AND JOÃO PEDRO?

João Pedro’s immediate focus is to integrate into the Chelsea squad as they prepare for their Club World Cup quarterfinal against Palmeiras in Philadelphia this week. New manager Enzo Maresca will rely on him to boost the team’s attack, especially with the busy schedule from European and World Cup commitments. Chelsea will play Palmeiras in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final, as mentioned in a previous report. Chelsea’s next Premier League match is their opener against Crystal Palace at home. João Pedro will look to integrate as soon as possible with the team, and try to compete for a spot in the starting lineup with Liam Delap, also bought this summer for the attack from Ipswich Town.