Where does João Pedro fit in at Chelsea?

Brazilian forward João Pedro has completed a high-profile move to Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion for a reported fee of £60 million, signing a seven-year contract.

The Blues continue to make bold moves in the transfer market, with Pedro joining fellow new signings Liam Delap from Ipswich Town and Estevão Willian from Palmeiras as part of Chelsea’s plans for a revamped attacking line.

Pedro has already linked up with Enzo Maresca’s squad in Miami, where the team are currently preparing for their upcoming Club World Cup fixture. Chelsea already boast a wealth of attacking talent, with the likes of Pedro Neto, Noni Madueke, Nicolas Jackson, Cole Palmer, and Christopher Nkunku all capable of leading the line or operating in supporting roles.

So the question arises: why did Chelsea feel the need to bring in João Pedro — and how exactly will he fit into their system?

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João Pedro is a versatile forward who can play on the left wing, as a centre-forward, and also as a No. 10. Under Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton, he was a regular starter. In his first season for the Seagulls (2023/24), he scored 20 goals and provided three assists in 40 games across all competitions, with the Italian coach deploying him in various roles across the front line.

Under Fabian Hürzeler, Pedro delivered solid returns last season as well, scoring 13 goals and providing seven assists in 33 appearances across all competitions. His creative stats — 3.33 shot-creating actions, 3.60 progressive passes, and 3.05 progressive carries per 90 — highlight his ability to create chances and provide key passes in the final third.

However, there are some concerns. The 23-year-old has had recurrent injury issues over the years, particularly ankle problems in the 2019/20, 2022/23, and 2024/25 seasons. He also missed 11 games for club and country in 2023/24 due to a hamstring injury. In addition, a training ground altercation with Brighton teammate Jan Paul van Hecke earlier this year led to a three-game suspension, raising questions about his discipline.

Enzo Maresca prefers versatile players, and Pedro fits that mould well — he can play as the sole centre-forward or as a No. 10 behind the striker. However, with Nicolas Jackson and Liam Delap competing for the striker role, and Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto occupying supporting positions out wide, regular starts may be difficult unless there are departures in the coming weeks.

Notably, it is unlikely Chelsea spent £60 million on a rotation player, which suggests the likes of Jackson and Madueke — both rumoured to be on their way out — could open up a spot for him.

Since Pedro is yet to play for Chelsea, his exact role remains speculative. Pre-season fixtures may offer insight into Maresca’s plans. That said, Pedro’s versatility gives him an edge. He can progress the ball, link up play, and launch quick transitions. A talented, Premier League-proven forward, the young Brazilian has the potential to become a prolific scorer and creator for the Blues.