Brighton striker Joao Pedro has reportedly chosen Chelsea as his preferred next club, dealing a blow to Newcastle United's hopes of signing the talented forward. The Blues are now intensifying talks with Brighton after their initial £58 million bid was rejected on Saturday, as they aim to get a deal done for the Brazil international.
Brighton are holding out for at least £60 million for the 23-year-old, who joined them from Watford in 2023. Newcastle had a £50 million bid turned down last week, with Chelsea now appearing to be the favourites for Pedro's signature.
Former Manchester United scout Mick Brown believes Joao Pedro is "certain" to leave Brighton this summer. He told Football Insider that Chelsea are looking to "hijack" Newcastle's efforts and that Pedro wants to join a bigger team.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca wants more attacking options after seeing Nicolas Jackson's inconsistent performances. Jackson was sent off during Chelsea's 3-1 Club World Cup loss against Flamengo, adding to frustrations over his displays. Whilst Chelsea have denied they are actively trying to sell Jackson, reports suggest Arsenal are among clubs monitoring his situation.
Pedro’s choice to favour Chelsea comes as he wants to be a first-choice striker. At Newcastle, he would face strong competition from Alexander Isak, who the Magpies value at over £125 million and expect to keep. Pedro likely sees a better chance of regular starts at Chelsea.
Both Chelsea and Newcastle can offer Champions League football next season, having finished fourth and fifth in the league respectively. Chelsea have already signed Liam Delap in a £30 million deal from Ipswich Town. However, Pedro offers versatility, able to play as a striker, on the left, or behind a main forward, which appeals to Chelsea, especially with Christopher Nkunku's future uncertain.
BBC Sport journalist Nizaar Kinsella stated that Chelsea are looking for another versatile attacker like Pedro to potentially replace Nkunku. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also confirmed that Chelsea have "intensified talks" for Pedro after securing a deal for Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens.
Newcastle had hoped their early formal offer would deter other clubs, but Chelsea's late push has changed the dynamic. Brighton are not under pressure to sell cheaply, as Pedro has three years left on his contract. However, talks are ongoing, and a deal could be done soon if Chelsea meet Brighton's asking price.
