Chelsea intensify talks to advance Joao Pedro deal

Chelsea have stepped up talks to complete the signing of Joao Pedro from Brighton this summer, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The Blues have turned their attention to Pedro after seeing a bid of £55m for Jamie Gittens accepted by Borussia Dortmund.

Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler expressed optimism about working with Pedro next season.

“Yeah for sure,” said Hurzeler to Sky sports when asked if Pedro and Mitoma will be back at Brighton.

“I’m really looking forward for both of them. They are great players, they helped us last season. They are expected to be back next week.”

However, several clubs are eyeing the Brazilian, including Newcastle United, Liverpool, and Manchester United.

Romano posted on X: “Understand Chelsea have now intensified talks to advance on João Pedro deal!

“Chelsea are focused on João deal with Brighton after signing Jamie Bynoe-Gittens with medical yesterday.

“Newcastle had two proposals rejected by Brighton… and Chelsea now pushing.”

Pedro missed Brighton’s final home game of the season against Tottenham

It is believed that Brighton would require a fee of around £70m to consider selling Pedro, who still has three years remaining on his contract.

The club paid a then-record £30m for him two years ago. The Seagulls turned down Newcastle’s bid of around £50m for Pedro.

In addition to Pedro, Chelsea are also reportedly interested in Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, while maintaining a long-term interest in Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.

Chelsea have already brought in Liam Delap from Ipswich Town.

Pedro missed Brighton’s final home game of the season against Tottenham.

This follows an altercation with a teammate during training, which also led to him being omitted from the matchday squad for the win against Liverpool.

The 23-year-old netted 10 Premier League goals and provided six assists in 27 games for the Seagulls last term.