Chelsea Complete £55m Double Signing of Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens Ahead of Club World Cup
Joao Pedro Joins Chelsea on Seven-Year Deal from Brighton
Chelsea have officially secured Brazilian forward Joao Pedro in a major transfer coup, signing him from Brighton & Hove Albion on a seven-year contract running until 2033. The deal forms part of a combined package reported to be worth around £55 million, which also includes the acquisition of Borussia Dortmund’s promising young winger Jamie Gittens.
Joao Pedro, who was Brighton’s joint top scorer last season with 19 goals, including 10 goals and 7 assists in the 2024-25 Premier League campaign, has emerged as one of the most exciting forwards in England. Since joining Brighton in 2023, Pedro made 70 appearances, netting 30 goals and providing 10 assists, impressing with his versatility to play as a central striker or across the front line. His goal involvement every 143 minutes was the best ratio among Brighton players with at least 10 goal contributions.
Interestingly, Brighton negotiated a sell-on clause and Watford, who sold Pedro to Brighton in 2023, are entitled to 20% of the profit from this move, ensuring all his former clubs benefit from his rising value.
Pedro’s transfer saw Newcastle United’s reported £50 million bid rejected as he opted for Chelsea, attracted by the club’s vision and competitive prospects. He has already joined the Chelsea squad preparing for the FIFA Club World Cup and could make his debut in the upcoming quarterfinals, adding immediate firepower alongside new signing Liam Delap.
Jamie Gittens Arrives from Borussia Dortmund on Long-Term Contract
Chelsea have also confirmed the signing of English winger Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund, paying an initial £48.5 million with potential add-ons of £3.5 million. The 20-year-old has penned a long-term deal through to June 2032, signaling Chelsea’s commitment to nurturing young, dynamic attacking talent.
Gittens, who impressed at Dortmund with his pace and dribbling, was spotted with the Chelsea squad after their victory against Palmeiras in the Club World Cup, illustrating his quick integration into the team setup. Although he will likely miss the immediate Club World Cup matches, he is expected to join the squad fully refreshed for the Premier League season under manager Enzo Maresca.
His rise through England’s youth ranks, including an under-19 European Championship win in 2022, highlights his potential. Chelsea see Gittens as a key part of their attacking rebuild, adding depth and competition to their forward line.
Chelsea’s Strategic Attacking Reinforcement
The signing of Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens reflects Chelsea’s strategic push to bolster their attacking options ahead of a demanding season that includes major competitions like the FIFA Club World Cup and the Premier League. Pedro’s versatility in the forward line and proven goal-scoring prowess complement Gittens’s youthful energy and flair on the wings.
This double deal provides Chelsea not only with immediate impact potential but also long-term prospects, as both players are in the early stages of their promising careers.
With Liam Delap also joining, Chelsea’s attack looks set to evolve into a potent mix of experience and youthful enthusiasm, aiming to challenge for honours domestically and internationally.
Background on Transfers and Performances
Joao Pedro’s rise to prominence at Brighton culminated in a standout 2024-25 season, where his goal and assist tallies placed him among the Premier League’s top forwards. Brighton enjoyed a successful campaign with his contributions pivotal to their attacking output.
Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund’s willingness to negotiate and ultimately part with Jamie Gittens indicates a transition phase as the Bundesliga club refocuses its squad. Gittens’s development in Germany has been noteworthy, positioning him as a valuable asset for Chelsea’s future.
The combined £55 million deal for both forwards represents a significant investment but one that Chelsea hope will pay dividends across multiple seasons as they seek to strengthen squad depth and offensive versatility.
Sources
- Sky Sports
- ESPN
- Chelsea FC Official Website
- BeIN Sports
- Bundesliga.com
- Sports Illustrated
What is the length of Joao Pedro’s contract with Chelsea?
Joao Pedro signed a seven-year contract with Chelsea, keeping him at the club until 2033.
How much did Chelsea pay for Jamie Gittens?
Chelsea paid Borussia Dortmund an initial £48.5 million for Jamie Gittens, with a potential £3.5 million in add-ons.
Will Joao Pedro play in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup?
Joao Pedro has joined the Chelsea squad ahead of the Club World Cup and could make his debut in the quarterfinals.
Did Newcastle United bid for Joao Pedro?
Yes, Newcastle United reportedly made a £50 million bid, but it was rejected as Pedro preferred to move to Chelsea.
What was included in the Brighton deal besides the transfer fee?
Brighton included a sell-on clause, and Watford is entitled to receive 20% of the profit from Joao Pedro’s transfer to Chelsea.
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