Chelsea have already signed Liam Delap this summer, but another striker could follow the England U21 international to Stamford Bridge.
Enzo Maresca needs improvements to his squad as Chelsea prepare to return to the UEFA Champions League next season, although, as has been typical under Todd Boehly, only young, unproven talents have been signed so far this summer in Geovany Quenda, Denner, Estevao Willian, Dario Essugo, Mamadou Sarr and Kendry Paez.
Now – however – Chelsea have begun talks to sign a more experienced player who is proven in the Premier League in Joao Pedro, and recent comments from his Brighton teammate Igor Julio would suggest this deal has a very good chance of materialising.
What Igor Julio said about Joao Pedro as Chelsea open talks with Brighton
Fabrizio Romano now states that the Brazilian striker is “highly appreciated” by Chelsea and initial discussions have taken place over a deal, after Brighton agreed to let the South American leave.
🚨🔵 Understand Chelsea have Brighton’s João Pedro as one of the targets on their shortlist for this summer, highly appreciated.
Initial contacts took place to be informed on situation, as João can leave this summer.
⚪️⚫️ Newcastle already approached Brighton this week. pic.twitter.com/X98wsaN37i
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 18, 2025
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Newcastle United are also keen to sign Pedro as Eddie Howe targets competition for Alexander Isak.
However, the Brazil international would much prefer a move to London over Tyneside if Julio is to be trusted.
The Brighton No.3 recently told Trivela: “Joao Pedro had already told Brighton some time ago that his desire was to leave, seek new things, take the next step. It seems it will be difficult and complicated for him to stay here. We have to be honest, the club already knows that.
“I would go to Liverpool and I think he would fit in perfectly at Liverpool. It’s because I’ve always dreamed of playing for Liverpool and I would go there (but) he always told me that he really wants to live in London, so I think he will prioritise what comes from there first.”
Brighton are looking to receive £60m for Pedro this summer, double the £30m fee they paid to sign the 23-year-old from Watford back in May 2023.
Enzo Maresca can use Joao Pedro with Liam Delap or Nicolas Jackson in the same XI
TBR Football understand Pedro recently told Howe he would be willing to play out wide – away from his preferred position as a central striker – in order to leave Brighton this summer.
Given his desire to live in London, we can only assume the Brighton No.9 would say the same to Maresca if talks proceed that far, meaning the Italian could squeeze the Brazilian into the same side as Delap or Jackson next season, rather than have the headache of selecting from three options for one position.