Sometimes, a big-money transfer doesn’t just come down to agents and boardrooms—it starts with a simple Instagram chat.
That’s exactly how Joao Pedro, one of Brazil’s rising football stars, found the encouragement he needed to make the leap from Brighton to Chelsea in a deal worth a reported £60 million.
Chelsea Go Big Again in the Transfer Window
Joao Pedro officially became a Chelsea player on Wednesday, adding to what has already been a busy summer at Stamford Bridge.
His arrival pushed the club’s spending over the £200 million mark, joining a long list of recent signings that includes Liam Delap, Estevao Willian, Dario Essugo, Mamadou Sarr, and Kendry Paez.
But Pedro isn’t just another hopeful prospect.
At 23, he arrives with solid Premier League credentials—five full seasons in England with both Watford and Brighton, and 30 goals in two seasons for the Seagulls.
The Chelsea Connection That Helped Make It Happen
Surprisingly, it wasn’t just Chelsea’s history or ambitions that pulled Pedro in—it was a fellow Brazilian, Andrey Santos.
Despite the fact that Santos hasn’t yet made his official Chelsea debut (he’s been loaned out to Vasco da Gama, Nottingham Forest, and Strasbourg), he played a key role behind the scenes.
“I was talking with Andrey on Instagram,” Pedro revealed.
“I asked about the guys, about the club, and he said good things about the team, so it’s good to join.”
Sometimes, all it takes is a trusted voice in your native language to help you feel comfortable about a big life change.
Advice from a Chelsea Legend
Pedro also turned to former Chelsea and Brazil defender David Luiz for career guidance—though he didn’t specifically talk to Luiz about Chelsea.
Still, it’s safe to assume that Luiz’s wealth of experience in the Premier League helped shape Pedro’s next move.
Ready for the Club World Cup Debut?
Chelsea’s new No. 9 could make his first appearance in blue very soon.
The Blues are competing in the newly expanded Club World Cup and are preparing for a quarter-final clash against Brazilian side Palmeiras, having already edged past Benfica in extra time during the round of 16.
Pedro, now officially registered, is eligible to feature in that game.
And what better way to start than against a top team from his home country?
First Impressions with a Touch of Samba
Chelsea introduced Joao Pedro to fans with a stylish beachside video—Pedro juggling a football to the rhythm of Brazilian jazz, accompanied by the message: “Welcome to Chelsea, Joao Pedro.”
It was a fitting introduction for the São Paulo-born star who prides himself on flair and finesse.
Speaking after the signing, Pedro didn’t hold back his excitement.
“Everyone knows this is a big club with a great history.
They had brilliant players in the past and have brilliant players now, so I am excited to join,” he said.
“When you are a Chelsea player you must think one thing—win.”
A Proven Talent from the South Coast
Pedro made a name for himself at Brighton after moving from Watford in 2023.
In just 70 appearances, he racked up 30 goals and 10 assists, becoming one of the most exciting young forwards in the league.
Chelsea had clearly taken note—especially after successful transfers from Brighton in recent years like Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella, and Robert Sanchez.
Now, Joao Pedro adds his name to that growing list of Seagulls-turned-Blues—and if his track record is anything to go by, Chelsea fans have plenty of reason to be excited.