Report: Chelsea Join Newcastle In Race For Brighton Forward | OneFootball

Chelsea and Newcastle in Tug-of-War for Brighton Star Joao Pedro

Joao Pedro: Brazil’s Rising Talent on Premier League Radar

Chelsea and Newcastle United are both in pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion’s versatile forward Joao Pedro, according to a report from The Athletic. The 23-year-old Brazil international has emerged as a prime target for both clubs as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Pedro, who signed for Brighton in a club-record £30million deal from Watford in 2023, scored 10 Premier League goals and provided six assists in the most recent campaign. Despite missing Brighton’s final two fixtures due to a training ground altercation with team-mate Jan Paul van Hecke — a matter that head coach Fabian Hurzeler said had been “dealt with internally” — Pedro remains a key asset on the transfer market. In total, the forward has registered 30 goals in 70 appearances for the Seagulls.

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Brighton’s Transfer Blueprint in Action

The South Coast club has become renowned for its profitable recruitment strategy, with Pedro likely to follow in the footsteps of Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella, Ben White, and Alexis Mac Allister — all players sold on for significant profits. The Athletic highlights that while no bid has been accepted yet, both Chelsea and Newcastle are currently in active talks with Brighton over a move.

Brighton’s model — buying smart, developing players, and selling at the peak of their value — continues to be a blueprint for sustainable success in the Premier League.

Chelsea’s Recruitment Vision Underlines Pedro Interest

Chelsea have already made early moves in the transfer market, bringing in Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, while completing deals for Dario Essugo, Estevao, Mamadou Sarr and Kendry Paez. Joao Pedro fits Chelsea’s recruitment strategy of targeting young, versatile talent with first-team experience.

Following the departure of Jadon Sancho, Chelsea are prioritising a versatile attacker and a right-footed left winger. The Athletic notes that Joao Pedro fits that profile well, while talks also continue with Borussia Dortmund over Jamie Gittens.

Given Pedro’s proven ability at Premier League level and his international breakthrough with Brazil — three caps since November 2024 — he represents a more immediate impact option than some of the younger arrivals.

Newcastle’s Silent Start May Shift Gears

Unlike Chelsea, Newcastle have yet to make a senior signing this summer despite also qualifying for the Champions League. Their interest in Pedro signals intent to bolster a squad that will face the rigours of domestic and European competition.

Pedro’s ability to operate as a second striker or wide forward could give Newcastle much-needed depth. However, The Athletic suggests they may need to act swiftly to avoid losing out to Chelsea’s more proactive recruitment drive.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea fan’s perspective, Joao Pedro would be a smart addition to the club’s evolving project. At 23, he already possesses Premier League experience and has shown he can contribute goals, assists, and link-up play — all key traits needed to complement the current attack.

The only slight concern might be his disciplinary record, following the reported bust-up with Van Hecke. However, that incident appears to have been an isolated one and was resolved quickly by Brighton’s staff. It shouldn’t be seen as a long-term red flag.

Pedro’s versatility could prove vital in a demanding season where squad rotation will be essential. Whether deployed centrally or out wide, he offers a dynamic option — one who could feasibly hit double figures again if given the right platform.

If Chelsea can secure his signature ahead of Newcastle, it would represent another step in building a balanced, youthful, and increasingly competitive squad under their current regime. Supporters are right to be cautiously optimistic — Pedro’s ceiling is high, and he’s already shown he’s ready for the next level.