Chelsea have moved quickly to secure João Pedro’s long-term future. Strong interest from Barcelona and Arsenal convinced the club to reinforce their stance over the Brazilian.
Brazil’s Globo Esporte report the Blues have agreed a one-year extension to the striker’s existing contract. The new deal runs until 2033. The agreement also includes a significant salary increase. This reflects the status João Pedro has earned after an outstanding first season at Stamford Bridge.
The report explains Chelsea made the decision early in the transfer window as they looked to shut down growing interest from elsewhere.
We have covered Barcelona’s pursuit of the striker in recent months. However, Globo Esporte now reported Arsenal also made it known they would be willing to pay more than €100m (£87m) for the Brazil international.
Chelsea’s response was immediate. Rather than opening the door to negotiations, the club informed interested parties that João Pedro was not for sale . Then they invited him to discuss improved terms.
Chelsea reward rise to key player
João Pedro has quickly established himself as one of the most important players in the Blues’ squad. Losing him to Arsenal is unthinkable.
The 24-year-old finished his first season with 20 goals and six assists in 50 appearances. He also played a leading role in Chelsea’s Club World Cup triumph.
He has carried that momentum into the new campaign. In a recent pre-season friendly against Sydney Wanderers, João Pedro scored a hat-trick and provided an assist, needing just 27 minutes to make his mark in a 6-4 victory.
According to Globo Esporte, Chelsea’s hierarchy believe his performances have significantly increased his value. This has led them to reward him with improved wages as well as another year on his already lengthy contract.
Chelsea shut the door
João Pedro’s new deal is expected to be signed in the coming days, extending his stay until 2033.
The report makes it clear Chelsea had no interest in entertaining Barcelona or Arsenal, despite both clubs signalling they were prepared to break the €100m (£87m) mark.
Instead, the Premier League side responded by making their position even stronger.
Rather than allowing the speculation to grow throughout the summer, Chelsea acted quickly to tie one of their biggest stars to fresh terms, making it clear they see João Pedro as untouchable and a central figure in the club’s long-term project.
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