Right before the start of the Club World Cup, Chelsea signed Liam Delap from Ipswich Town to bolster their forward line by adding another striker to Enzo Maresca's squad for the gruelling season ahead. The 22-year-old scored 12 goals and provided two assists during last season's Premier League campaign, and it is believed that half of England's top flight wanted him this summer.
As the transfer window re-opened this Monday, Chelsea are not wasting any time and have started their search for fresh faces before the start of the next season. The signing of Delap is definitely a crucial addition to the squad but the shaky form of Nicolas Jackson will be a worry for the Blues moving forward.
Chelsea are looking for a more versatile striker who can also play it out from the wide areas and also make runs behind the centre-backs when needed. And it looks like a Brighton & Hove Albion player is on their radar.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have Brighton’s Joao Pedro as one of the targets on their shortlist for this summer. He is highly appreciated. Initial contacts took place to be informed on the situation, as he can leave this summer.
Chelsea Eager to Sign Striker Also Wanted by Newcastle United and Liverpool
According to some rumours, Pedro is valued at a staggering £70 million but the Blues are looking to sign the player for £60 million. The 23-year-old has registered 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 games for Brighton up until now.
Apparently, the Blues will also have to compete against Liverpool, who are looking to replace Darwin Nunez before the start of the 25/26 season. Newcastle United have also made contact to sign him.
It is clear that some top clubs want to sign Pedro. But is that £70 million asking fee justified, considering his shaky output in the Premier League?