Chelsea have reportedly reached an agreement with Brighton to sign Joao Pedro. The forward has been heavily linked with a move away from the Amex Stadium this summer, with Newcastle, Liverpool and Arsenal cited as suitors previously.

But the Blues have pounced to win the race to secure his signature, with Enzo Maresca’s attacking rebuild in full flow following the arrival of Liam Delap and an agreement now being in place for Jamie Gittens to join his side.

According to The Athletic, Chelsea have reached an agreement to sign Pedro in a deal worth in excess of £50million. The Brazil international has already agreed on a personal terms with the Blues and he is set to undergo his medical early next week to ensure that he can compete at the Club World Cup in the United States.

Pedro has agreed to sign a contract until 2032 with the club, with Chelsea pleased with their acquisition and the different options he can provide in the final third.

The ex-Watford star is capable of playing as a striker or No. 10 but he has also been utilised out wide since joining the Seagulls and emerged with credit in that role. Pedro scored 10 goals and registered six assists in 30 appearances in all competitions for Brighton last season, and Chelsea will be hoping he can build on those tallies upon moving back to London.

It remains to be seen how Pedro’s arrival at Chelsea impacts their outgoings, with Nicolas Jackson being linked with a move away from the club in recent weeks. Armando Broja, who has spent the last two season out on loan, is also expected to depart.

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