Brazilian Forward Becomes Blues’ Fifth Major Signing of the Summer
Chelsea have added to their growing list of big-money acquisitions, confirming the signing of Brazilian forward Joao Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion for a reported £60 million.
The 23-year-old attacker has signed a lengthy deal keeping him at Stamford Bridge until 2033, signalling yet another bold move by owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital.
“Everyone knows this is a big club with a great history. They had brilliant players in the past and have brilliant players now. So I am excited to join, and you know when you are a Chelsea player you must think one thing — win,” Joao Pedro remarked.
Pedro has already linked up with his new teammates in the United States ahead of Chelsea’s Club World Cup campaign. He is eligible to feature in Friday’s quarter-final clash against Palmeiras.
His arrival marks Chelsea’s fifth significant acquisition this window, following the signings of Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, Kendry Paez, and Mamadou Sarr.
Since Boehly and Clearlake took the reins in 2022, the club has invested over $1 billion in transfers. That figure includes British record deals for midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.
Pedro’s switch is the latest in a growing list of Brighton players to make the move to west London, joining the likes of Marc Cucurella, Robert Sanchez, and Caicedo.
Brighton signed Pedro from Watford in 2023 for £30 million, making this a swift and profitable turnaround.
“This is a good move for all parties. It’s an excellent deal for the club, and a good return on a significant investment in an area of the pitch where we have a lot of competition and are already well served in terms of our attacking talent,” said Brighton coach Fabian Hurzeler.
During his time with Brighton, Pedro netted 10 goals in 32 appearances last season, and 30 goals in total during his stint with the Seagulls.
Joao Pedro joins as Chelsea gear up for their return to the Champions League, having finished fourth in the Premier League under new manager Enzo Maresca. It was the club’s best league finish since the ownership change.
They also lifted the UEFA Conference League trophy, capping off a promising campaign. Now, with ambitions running high, Chelsea aim to mount a serious Premier League title challenge next season and potentially add more silverware at the ongoing Club World Cup.
