The Brazil international has opened up on his decision to join Chelsea this summer
Joao Pedro.
João Pedro.(Image: Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)
Joao Pedro has admitted he turned down Newcastle United because he didn't fancy the move to the North-East.
The Magpies watched on in June as a £50m bid fell short for the Brazil international before Pedro made it clear to his agent that he only wanted Chelsea.
But despite head coach Eddie Howe eager to sell him his ambitious Newcastle project, Pedro proceeded with the switch to Stamford Bridge with the 23-year-old netting twice in his first three Premier League matches.
Pedro, speaking to the Evening Standard in the capital, said: "When I was in Brighton, I was missing London a little bit.
"I had a chance to move to another club, but I chose Chelsea because it’s in London, it’s a big club, and I knew in my head it was the right move.
"I’ve come to a big club at the right time, because I want to be in the Brazil squad for the World Cup.
"The team is young. Everyone has a long contract so we can play together for a long time. If we all know each other, we’re more likely to win titles."
Howe had tried to sign Pedro before during his Watford days in 2022 before he eventually ended up at Brighton a year later.
The Magpies had submitted that £50m bid for the Brazil international before being told to return with more earlier this summer. Sources on the South Coast stated that the Blues' successful bid was worth £60m plus a potential £5m more in add-ons but Newcastle pulled out once they knew Pedro wasn't keen for geographic reasons.
At one stage Newcastle had been leading the race to sign Pedro before being gazumped by the Blues. As Newcastle advanced in talks with Albion, Chelsea accelerated their own interest and snatched the deal.
Newcastle have their valuations for every player, and 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 matches represent a modest return for a Brighton side he has inspired to 11th and eighth place.
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