Chelsea FC have completed the signing of forward Joao Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion in a deal worth around £60 million.
Pedro, 23, signed a seven-year contract with the Blues and will be available to play for the club in the Club World Cup quarterfinal match against Palmeiras in Philadelphia on Saturday.
He could make his Chelsea debut in the tournament, as clubs can register new players between until July 3.
“Chelsea is delighted to announce the signing of Brazil international Joao Pedro from Brighton and Hove Albion,” the club said in a statement on its website.
“The 23-year-old forward has penned a long-term deal with the Blues that runs through to 2033, and joins the squad immediately ahead of our FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final against Palmeiras.”
Watford will receive 20 per cent of the deal after selling the forward to Brighton for £35 million in 2023.
Since 2022, Brighton have received £260m from Chelsea through the sale of players. The club sold Marc Cucurella and Robert Sanchez to the Premier League side for £63m and £25m, respectively.
The Blues also paid Brighton £115 million to sign Moises Caicedo in 2023.
“Everyone knows this is a big club with a great history,” Pedro said. “They had brilliant players in the past and have brilliant players now.
“So I am excited to join and you know when you are a Chelsea player you must think one thing — win.”
