Joao Pedro set to extend Chelsea deal to 2034

What the report says

Chelsea are set to extend Joao Pedro’s contract before the Premier League season begins, according to BBC Sport Football. The report says Stamford Bridge sources expect the new agreement to be completed, while people close to the Brazil international say terms have already been settled on a deal running to 2032, with an option for Chelsea to add two more years. If completed, that would keep the 24-year-old at the club until 2034.

Joao Pedro is viewed internally as one of Chelsea’s most successful recent signings after arriving from Brighton last summer in a transfer worth an initial £55m, rising to £60m with add-ons. The forward’s form has strengthened his standing: last season he became the first Chelsea striker since Diego Costa to score 20 goals in a campaign without penalty goals, and he also contributed during the club’s Club World Cup-winning run.

The BBC also notes that Joao Pedro has started pre-season strongly, scoring eight times in seven warm-up matches. He is expected to lead the line in Chelsea’s Premier League opener away to Fulham on Monday. The club’s decision to hand him the number nine shirt, after Liam Delap gave it up, underlines his importance.

More broadly, Chelsea are planning further contract talks with other key players after the transfer window closes, with Levi Colwill and Estevao Willian among those mentioned by the broadcaster.