Chelsea have secured the signing of Brighton striker Joao Pedro, beating Newcastle United to the Brazilian’s signature in a deal reported to be worth in excess of £50 million, according to The Athletic.

The Blues emerged as the frontrunners ahead of several suitors, including Newcastle, with personal terms swiftly agreed. Pedro has signed a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge, which will keep him at the club until 2032.

Pedro joined Brighton from Watford in 2023 for £30 million and, while not spectacular, impressed with 30 goals in 70 appearances across all competitions. In the Premier League, he notched 19 goals in 58 games, underlining his consistency in front of goal. The 22-year-old also earned three caps for Brazil in 2023, though he is yet to score at international level.

The move is still pending a medical, but no complications are expected. Pedro is likely to join Chelsea’s squad for their Club World Cup campaign in the United States.

Revamping the Attack
Pedro is the latest addition in a summer rebuild of Chelsea’s forward line. Liam Delap, who joined from Ipswich Town for £30 million, has already made an impact by scoring in the Blues’ Club World Cup last-16 victory over Benfica.

With the arrival of Pedro and Delap, doubts are beginning to surface over the future of Nicolas Jackson. Despite scoring 30 goals in 80 appearances since arriving from Villarreal, Jackson has endured spells of inconsistency. While his pace and movement have impressed, his finishing has come under scrutiny after missing several key chances.

Interestingly, Arsenal are now reportedly monitoring Jackson as they continue their pursuit of a new centre-forward. The Gunners are prioritising a striker this summer, with Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko high on the shortlist. Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins also remains under consideration, while Jackson appears to be a less likely, yet possible, alternative.

Meanwhile, Christopher Nkunku, who had an underwhelming season at Chelsea due to injuries and form, has been the subject of exit rumours. However, the Frenchman offered a reminder of his quality with a vital goal in the Club World Cup win over Benfica.

Pedro vs Jackson vs Delap – Premier League Records:
• Joao Pedro
Appearances: 89 | Goals: 22 | Assists: 10

• Nicolas Jackson
Appearances: 65 | Goals: 24 | Assists: 10

• Liam Delap
Appearances: 39 | Goals: 12 | Assists: 2

More Arrivals Expected
Chelsea are also expected to finalise the signing of Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund in a deal worth £55 million. However, the Blues are not rushing the transfer since Gittens has already featured for Dortmund in the Club World Cup, making him ineligible to represent Chelsea in the current tournament.

Nevertheless, the 20-year-old winger is likely to join the squad in the United States and complete the second part of his medical ahead of his official unveiling.