Chelsea Strikes Gold: £50 Million Striker Deal Sealed with Multi-Year Contract as Club World Cup Spot Secured
Chelsea continues their active summer transfer window despite their ongoing FIFA Club World Cup campaign, with reports confirming they have successfully secured Brighton and Hove Albion forward João Pedro.
The London club has finalized terms with Brighton for Pedro's transfer in a deal exceeding £50 million ($68.6 million), including a contract running through 2032, according to The Athletic. While the transfer awaits medical clearance, Pedro is anticipated to link up with Chelsea's squad in the United States to participate in the remainder of the Club World Cup tournament.
The 23-year-old Pedro featured in 16 matches as a central striker for Brighton last season. His adaptability saw him deployed across multiple positions including left wing, second striker, and attacking midfield roles throughout his 27 Premier League outings. The Brazilian international netted 10 goals while contributing six assists in league competition. Pedro marks Chelsea's second striker acquisition this summer following Liam Delap's arrival, though Pedro offers greater positional flexibility.
This transfer continues the established transfer relationship between both clubs. Chelsea has previously recruited Marc Cucurella, Moisés Caicedo, and Robert Sánchez from Brighton. Additionally, Levi Colwill notably completed a loan spell at the Seagulls.
Newcastle United also pursued Pedro's services, but according to David Ornstein, the player's preference was exclusively for a Chelsea move.
Enzo Maresca gains another attacking option for his tactical setup, particularly relevant as Delap has stepped into starting duties following Nicolas Jackson's red card dismissal during the Club World Cup group phase against Flamengo. Pedro's immediate role remains uncertain, though he may have chances to make an early impression as Chelsea prepares to face Palmeiras in the quarterfinal round. Should they advance, they would likely meet the victor from the 2023 Champions League final replay between Inter and Manchester City.