Chelsea have bolstered their attacking ranks with the signing of Brazilian forward Joao Pedro from Brighton in a deal worth 60 million pounds.
The 23-year-old has signed a long-term eight-year contract at Stamford Bridge, making him one of the most high-profile additions of the summer window. Pedro is expected to make his debut as early as Friday, when Chelsea face Palmeiras in the quarterfinals of the FIFA Club World Cup.
Sources told ESPN that Pedro turned down interest from Newcastle United, opting instead for Chelsea’s project and the promise of Champions League football.
“Everyone knows this is a big club with a great history,” Pedro said in his first statement as a Chelsea player. “They’ve had brilliant players in the past and have brilliant players now. When you’re a Chelsea player, you must think one thing – win.”
A graduate of Fluminense’s academy, Pedro arrived in England in 2020 with Watford, before making a 30m pounds switch to Brighton two years later. His time at the Amex Stadium saw him evolve into one of the Premier League’s most dynamic attacking threats.
In two standout seasons with the Seagulls, Pedro registered 30 goals and 10 assists in all competitions, drawing praise for his creativity, pressing, and ability to play across the front line. He also earned three senior caps for Brazil, and will now be eyeing a more prominent international role ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
He joins Chelsea as part of a forward line rebuild and is expected to compete directly with fellow newcomer Liam Delap for minutes in Enzo Maresca’s setup.
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler praised Pedro’s impact and professionalism, while highlighting the business logic of the sale.
“This is a good move for all parties,” said Hurzeler. “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 strong depth.”
“Joao has given us some wonderful moments – during my time and before I came to the club – so on behalf of everyone, I want to thank him and wish him well.”
The deal represents another significant piece of transfer business for Brighton, who continue to turn rising talent into record profits. The 60m pounds fee makes Pedro one of the club’s biggest-ever sales, following the likes of Moises Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister.
Pedro’s arrival signals Chelsea’s intent to blend long-term planning with immediate ambition. The Blues continue to reshape under Pochettino, and the Brazilian’s flair, versatility, and hunger to win could prove vital as the club targets silverware on both domestic and international fronts.