Chelsea striker Joao Pedro agrees new contract extension until 2032
Chelsea striker Joao Pedro is set to sign an improved contract until 2032, with the option of two further years, to reward his outstanding debut season.
The 24-year-old Brazil international arrived at Stamford Bridge from Brighton last summer in a deal worth an initial £55m plus add-ons.
While his original agreement was publicly announced as running until 2033, it was actually a deal until 2032 with a one-year club extension option.
Rewarding goalscoring excellence
This newly agreed contract extends the former Brighton man’s stay on significantly improved financial terms.
The strategic move by the Blues protects their substantial investment amid reported transfer interest from Spanish giants Barcelona.
It also aligns perfectly with the club’s strict wage structure, which actively incentivises strong performances by allowing players to move into higher salary brackets.
Similar financial upgrades were previously handed to attacking duo Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson following their own impressive campaigns.
Taking the iconic number nine
The prolific forward became the first Chelsea player since Diego Costa to score 20 goals in a single campaign without taking penalties last season.
That phenomenal form has continued with eight goals in seven pre-season fixtures, following three strikes during the club’s successful Club World Cup campaign.
His undeniable success has led management to hand him the coveted number nine shirt ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.
He is fully expected to lead the attacking line during the opening fixture against Fulham on Monday.
Squad reshuffle at Stamford Bridge
Recent arrivals Danny Welbeck and Emmanuel Emegha are expected to provide essential attacking cover for the Brazilian talisman this year.
Meanwhile, previous number nine Liam Delap has relinquished the shirt and is currently available for a £50m transfer.
The outgoing striker is actively attracting interest from both Nottingham Forest and Leeds United.
Following the closure of the transfer window, the West London side intend to secure the futures of several other key prospects, including Levi Colwill and Estevao Willian.