Chelsea have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion forward Joao Pedro, as the Blues aim to beat rivals Newcastle United to the 23-year-old Brazilian’s signature.
Both Chelsea and Newcastle have expressed strong interest in the attacker, who played a pivotal role for Brighton in the 2024–25 Premier League season, scoring or assisting 16 goals in 27 appearances. However, Brighton have already rejected two bids from Newcastle, holding firm on their £60 million valuation.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have intensified negotiations with Brighton following their agreement to sign Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Bynoe-Gittens for £55 million. Gittens has completed his medical, allowing the club to now focus solely on Pedro.
The Daily Mail adds that Pedro is ‘leaning towards’ a move to West London, although Chelsea’s most recent bid of £58 million has also been turned down. Brighton remain adamant about receiving the full asking price for the former Watford star, who has registered 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 matches for the Seagulls since 2023.
Pedro’s potential arrival could add further depth to Enzo Maresca’s squad. While Chelsea already have Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson competing for the No. 9 role, Pedro is expected to play just behind the main striker, complementing Cole Palmer, who often cuts inside from wide areas.
Interestingly, this transfer may also benefit Manchester United. The Red Devils have been linked with Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku, who continues to struggle for consistent starts at Stamford Bridge. Pedro’s arrival would add further competition in Nkunku’s preferred role, potentially pushing Chelsea to entertain offers for the Frenchman.
Nkunku recently impressed in Chelsea’s 4-1 win over Benfica in the Club World Cup last-16 tie, but with Pedro’s signing looming, his future in West London remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Chelsea prepare for their quarter-final match against Palmeiras, already dealing with a setback as Moises Caicedo will miss the clash through suspension.