Chelsea Finalizes Acquisition of Joao Pedro

Chelsea Football Club has officially announced the signing of forward Joao Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion. The agreement between the clubs was confirmed on Wednesday.

While the specific financial terms remain undisclosed, reports circulated in British media this past Sunday indicated a transfer fee of approximately £60 million ($81.54 million).

Pedro conveyed his excitement about joining Chelsea, emphasizing the club’s prestigious reputation and the quality of its players. He stated his ambition to contribute to the team’s winning culture.

The Brazilian player, who has committed to an eight-year contract, remarked, “Everyone recognizes Chelsea as a major club with a rich history.” He further added, “They have had exceptional players in the past and continue to have them now. I am thrilled to be part of the team, and as a Chelsea player, the primary focus is always on achieving victory.”

During his two seasons with Brighton, the 23-year-old made a significant impact, amassing 30 goals and 10 assists in 70 appearances after his arrival from Watford in 2023.

Brighton’s head coach, Fabian Huerzeler, acknowledged the move as a significant opportunity for Pedro.

Huerzeler commented, “This provides him with a chance to participate in Champions League football in the upcoming season, and he will undoubtedly be eager to solidify his position within the Brazil national team in anticipation of next summer’s World Cup.”

Pedro’s transfer marks the fourth instance of a senior player moving from Brighton to Chelsea since 2022, following in the footsteps of Moises Caicedo, defender Marc Cucurella, and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.

Chelsea has also verified Pedro’s inclusion in their squad for the Club World Cup in the United States, offering him the possibility of making his debut in the quarter-final match against Palmeiras in Philadelphia this Friday.

Pedro is set to join other recent Chelsea acquisitions, including striker Liam Delap, defender Mamadou Sarr, and midfielder Dario Essugo. Midfielder Andrey Santos will also be rejoining the squad after his loan period at Strasbourg.