The deal for Joao Pedro will not come cheap. Early indications suggest that the transfer could reach the €100 million mark, including fixed fees and performance-related bonuses. However, Chelsea are expected to play hardball over the 24-year-old, who has become a focal point of their attack since arriving from Brighton for €70m at the start of the season.
Despite Chelsea’s inconsistent form in the Premier League, the Brazilian forward has enjoyed a productive debut campaign at Stamford Bridge. In 51 appearances across all competitions, he has netted 23 goals and provided nine assists while playing a key role in the club’s Club World Cup triumph. Chelsea’s hierarchy remains reluctant to sell a player who has finally solved their long-standing issues in the number nine position.