Joao Pedro Reveals Why He Chose Chelsea Over Newcastle United

In the competitive world of Premier League transfers, few stories capture attention like Joao Pedro's 2025 move from Brighton & Hove Albion to Chelsea. The 23-year-old Brazilian international striker was a hot commodity during the summer window, with Newcastle United among the top clubs vying for his signature.

Ultimately, Pedro opted for Stamford Bridge in a £60 million deal, leaving fans wondering: why Chelsea over Newcastle?

Joao Pedro's Rise in English Football: From Watford to Brighton

To understand Joao Pedro's decision, it's essential to look at his career trajectory. Born in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, in 2001, Pedro began his professional journey with Fluminense before making a bold move to Europe. He joined Watford in January 2020 for around £2 million, initially on loan back to Fluminense before fully integrating into the Hornets' squad.

At Watford, Pedro experienced the highs and lows of English football. He played a key role in the Championship after Watford's relegation from the Premier League in 2022, scoring 20 goals over three seasons in the second tier.

His performances caught the eye of Brighton, who signed him in the summer of 2023 for a club-record £30 million. Over two seasons with the Seagulls, Pedro truly flourished, netting 30 goals in 70 appearances across all competitions and earning his first caps for Brazil.

Living on the South Coast was a change for Pedro, who had grown accustomed to London's vibrant energy during his Watford days. This personal factor would later play a significant role in his transfer decision.

Joao Pedro is a Blue! 💙

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 2, 2025

The 2025 Transfer Battle: Chelsea vs. Newcastle United

The summer of 2025 saw intense competition for Joao Pedro's services. Newcastle United, under manager Eddie Howe, were keen to bolster their attacking options amid an ambitious project backed by their Saudi owners. The Magpies had qualified for the Champions League and were looking to build on their progress, identifying Pedro as a versatile forward who could complement their squad.

Newcastle reportedly tabled a competitive bid, but Chelsea emerged victorious with a £60 million offer that Brighton accepted in July. This move came amid a challenging transfer window for Newcastle, who missed out on several top targets, including Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko, and Bryan Mbeumo. Pedro's rejection added to the list, highlighting the difficulties in attracting players to the North East despite the club's rising status.

For Chelsea, the signing aligned with their strategy of investing in young, proven Premier League talents. Under manager Enzo Maresca, the Blues were rebuilding after a transitional period, aiming to challenge for top honours once again.

Reasons Joao Pedro Chose Chelsea: Location, Ambition, and Instinct

Joao Pedro's choice wasn't solely about finances or club prestige—personal lifestyle played a pivotal role. Having spent several formative years in London with Watford, Pedro found himself yearning for the capital's buzz while at Brighton.

In a candid interview, Pedro explained his decision: “When I was in Brighton, I was missing London a little bit. I had a chance to move to another club, but I chose Chelsea because it’s in London, it’s a big club, and I knew in my head it was the right move.”

Joao Pedro's Impact at Chelsea: A Strong Start in Blue

Since joining Chelsea, Joao Pedro has hit the ground running, justifying the £60 million investment. In his first six appearances, he has scored five goals, including the opener in a recent victory over Fulham. This prolific form has endeared him to Chelsea fans and positioned him as a key player in their attack.

Pedro's versatility—able to play as a striker, winger, or attacking midfielder—adds depth to Chelsea's squad. As the season progresses, his contributions could be vital in their pursuit of Premier League glory and European success.

Joao Pedro's choice of Chelsea over Newcastle United highlights how personal factors like location can tip the scales in transfer decisions. For players like Pedro, who value familiarity alongside ambition, London's allure proved irresistible. As he continues to shine at Stamford Bridge, Newcastle will look to their new recruits to maintain their upward trajectory.