Chelsea have an agreement in principle with Brighton to sign Joao Pedro, with the Brazilian en route already to America to undergo a medical. Pedro will sign a seven-year contract until summer 2032 subject to formalities.
Chelsea will pay in excess of £50m, while GMS understands that Brighton also retain a sell-on clause.
The Blues intensified talks in the past 48 hours with a view to signing Pedro in time to register him for the Club World Cup. The knock-stage window closes on July 3, while Chelsea face Palmeiras on July 4 in Philadelphia, a game in which Pedro could even make his debut.
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23-year-old Pedro scored 10 goals and got six assists in the Premier League last season, but he missed Brighton’s final two matches of the season after a training ground altercation with Jan Paul van Hecke.
Joao Pedro Preferered Chelsea Move Over Newcastle United
The Magpies were informed in the past days
Brighton were willing sellers, providing their £50m+ valuation was met, while Pedro only wanted a move to Chelsea once he learned of their concrete interest. Newcastle United also made a strong pitch, with their talks pre-dating Chelsea's approach, but Pedro made it clear to all parties in the past week that he wanted a switch to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea entered the race for Pedro's signature relatively late, initially deciding not to approach Brighton in May. But discussions in June in America led them to the conclusion that Pedro's versatility and system-fit makes him a strong addition, and one that is ultimately needed with Christopher Nkunku expected to depart.
Pedro will join fellow new signing Jamie Gittens at the club. The Dortmund left-winger has already passed his medical ahead of a £55m move. Gittens was Chelsea's top left-wing target, but he can't play at the Club World Cup since he is registered for Dortmund, and players are not allowed to feature for two clubs at the tournament.
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Chelsea have moved quickly to secure significant summer business already, with Liam Delap also joining from Ipswich for £30m, and scoring his first goal for the club against ES Tunis. Dario Essugo is another summer signing from Sporting that was pre-agreed before the window opened, while Estevao Willian will officially join Chelsea after the Club World Cup, but first must face them with Palmeiras in the quarter-finals.
Chelsea feel the bulk of their business is done, although are still discussing whether another forward is needed. Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike is one potential target. Whether they move may now depend on whether Nicolas Jackson departs. Another centre-back is also possible, with appreciation for Jorrel Hato. Chelsea also tried to sign Milan keeper Mike Maignan before the Club World Cup. It remains to be seen whether they add another keeper, but links with Aston Villa's Emi Martinez are wide of the mark.