Jul 2, 02:19 PM

Chelsea Buys João Pedro for £55 Million as Corinthians Pursues Biel Deal

Chelsea on Wednesday confirmed the signing of Brazilian forward João Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion for an initial £55 million (about R$411 million). The 23-year-old agreed a seven-year contract through 2032, with the fee potentially climbing to £60 million if performance add-ons are met. Under FIFA’s solidarity mechanism, Fluminense—where the player was developed—will receive 2.5% of the base amount, or roughly £1.375 million (R$10.2 million). João Pedro scored 30 goals and supplied 10 assists in 70 appearances for Brighton, form that helped earn him a Brazil call-up and persuaded Chelsea to make him their latest long-term attacking investment. In Brazil, Corinthians have reached a salary agreement with 24-year-old winger Gabriel ‘Biel’ and have submitted a second bid to Sporting CP as they seek to complete a permanent transfer when the domestic window opens on 10 July. Sporting is asking about €7 million (R$45 million) for full ownership, but Corinthians are proposing to acquire 50–60% of the player’s economic rights and spread the payment over several instalments. Biel joined Sporting in February for a similar sum but has made only seven appearances; the Portuguese champions are now prepared to negotiate a reduced figure to recoup part of their outlay.