João Pedro Set for Chelsea Medical as Blues Eye Club World Cup Debut

Chelsea Football Club have agreed a deal worth in excess of £50 million to sign Brazilian forward João Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion, with the player now set to undergo a medical in the United States ahead of a potential debut in the Club World Cup.

The 23-year-old is expected to travel from Brazil to the U.S. to complete his medical, with hopes he can be registered in time to feature for Chelsea in Friday’s quarter-final clash against Palmeiras in Philadelphia. Clubs participating in the tournament are permitted to register new players between June 27 and July 3, giving João Pedro a clear path to eligibility should all formalities be completed.

João Pedro, who can play as a striker, left-winger, or attacking midfielder, has agreed to personal terms on a seven-year contract with Chelsea. His arrival comes after he was made available for sale by Brighton following a reported altercation with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke, which saw him banished from the first-team squad at the end of last season. Despite interest from Newcastle United, who saw two bids rejected, João Pedro reportedly only wanted to join Chelsea once their interest became clear.

The forward scored 30 goals and provided 10 assists in 70 appearances for Brighton after joining from Watford for a then-club record £30 million in 2023. Watford are set to receive 20% of the profit from his latest transfer.

João Pedro’s readiness for competitive action is further underscored by recent reports that he completed full training without setbacks, following earlier concerns over a minor injury and a psychological struggle that led him to briefly leave Gremio’s training facilities last week. If his medical is successful and registration is completed, he could join a new-look Chelsea attack alongside recent signings Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens.

With João Pedro’s signing, Chelsea aim to bolster their attacking options as they pursue success in the Club World Cup and beyond.