Chelsea have joined Newcastle United in the pursuit of Brighton’s Brazilian forward Joao Pedro, with both Premier League clubs eager to sign the versatile attacker this summer.
The 23-year-old impressed last season, registering 10 goals and six assists in the Premier League. Despite his strong form, Pedro appears keen on a new challenge, having informed Brighton of his desire to leave. Sources close to the player suggest he prefers a move to London, giving Chelsea a potential edge in negotiations.
Newcastle recently saw a £50 million offer—£45m up front with £5m in add-ons—rejected by Brighton, who are holding out for a £60 million fee. Meanwhile, Chelsea have made contact with the Seagulls as they continue their hunt for attacking reinforcements under new boss Enzo Maresca.
Pedro, who joined Brighton for £30m from Watford two years ago, ended last season under a cloud after being dropped from the squad following a training ground bust-up with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke. Despite this, Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler insists he expects Pedro and fellow star Kaoru Mitoma to return for pre-season, although transfer developments may change that plan.
Pedro’s Brighton teammate Igor Julio recently revealed that the forward is prioritizing a move to London, making Chelsea a more likely destination than Newcastle. “Joao Pedro had already told Brighton that his desire was to leave… he really wants to live in London,” said Julio.
With 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 appearances for Brighton, Pedro has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most exciting young talents. Chelsea’s interest now adds fuel to an already hot transfer saga—one that could intensify in the coming days as Brighton hold firm on their valuation.
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