Joao Pedro chooses preferred club amid Chelsea, Newcastle battle
Brighton forward Joao Pedro has made his decision amid a high-stakes transfer battle, with the Brazilian star opting to join Chelsea ahead of Newcastle United, according to The Daily Mail.
Chelsea, who have already had a £58 million offer rejected, are now intensifying negotiations and are confident of sealing a deal above Brighton’s £60 million valuation.
The 22-year-old’s preference for Stamford Bridge has given the Blues the upper hand in what has been a fiercely competitive pursuit.
Pedro has been a standout performer since joining Brighton from Watford in 2023, netting 30 goals in 70 appearances across all competitions.
He enjoyed a career-best 2024/25 season, scoring 20 times, 10 in the Premier League.
The move comes following the yet-to-be announced signing of Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund and the signing of Liam Delap.
Newcastle, who submitted two formal bids earlier in the window, appear to be falling out of contention, with Pedro signalling his preference to join Chelsea’s project instead.
