Joao Pedro Picks Chelsea Over Newcastle in £60m Move from Brighton

Chelsea have beaten Newcastle to the signing of Brighton's Joao Pedro, with the 23-year-old Brazilian forward agreeing to join the Blues in a deal that could rise to £60 million.

Pedro is expected to fly out from Brazil to the United States, where Chelsea are gearing up for the Club World Cup. Pending a successful medical, he’ll link up with Enzo Maresca’s squad ahead of their quarter-final clash with Palmeiras. With clubs allowed to register new players between June 27 and July 3 for the tournament, Pedro will be eligible to make his debut as early as Friday. 

Brighton originally signed Pedro from Watford in 2023 for a club-record £35 million. Just two years later, they’re cashing in at a significant profit. Watford are set to receive 20% of that profit as part of a sell-on clause from the original deal. Pedro scored 13 goals in all competitions for the Seagulls last season and became a key part of their attacking setup, catching the eye with his energy, versatility, and ability to operate across the front line. 

Although Newcastle made a solid push for his signature and even had a £50 million bid turned down last week, it quickly became clear Pedro only had eyes for Chelsea. His arrival adds another dimension to Maresca’s squad as they continue to rebuild for the new season under their new manager. 

The Brazilian forward joins a growing list of young talent arriving at Stamford Bridge this summer. Chelsea have already signed striker Liam Delap from Ipswich, and winger Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund is also finalising his move. Gittens is expected to sign a seven-year deal himself, with the transfer fee set at €65 million (£55.5 million). However, Gittens won’t be available for the Club World Cup as he already played for Dortmund in their group stage game against Fluminense. 

Alongside those signings, Chelsea have also welcomed Dario Essugo, Estevao, Mamadou Sarr, and Kendry Paez – part of a wider strategy focused on building for the future. Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho’s season-long loan has ended, and he’s now returned to Manchester United. With Pedro’s deal now close to completion, Chelsea fans could see him don the blue shirt for the first time in just a matter of days. 

Also Read: Newcastle Step Up Pursuit of Joao Pedro Despite Rejected Bid