João Pedro Set to Sign New Chelsea Deal

Chelsea forward João Pedro is reportedly on the verge of signing a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2032, with an option for a further two-year extension, according to BBC.

The 24-year-old Brazilian international joined the Blues from Brighton last summer in a deal worth £55 million, plus an additional £5 million in add-ons.

Upon his arrival, it was initially announced that his contract would run until 2033. However, the actual agreement was until 2032 with an option for an additional year.

Chelsea typically includes these club options when officially announcing the duration of their players' contracts.

For this reason, when João Pedro's new contract is confirmed, it will likely be stated that he is tied to the club until 2034, even though the core agreement is until 2032 with a two-year option.

In essence, Chelsea is extending his contract under improved terms, rather than shortening it. This strategy aims not only to protect the investment in the player, who had attracted interest from Barcelona, but also to reward his strong performances.

The London club adheres to a strict wage structure but seeks to incentivize strong displays by allowing players to move into higher pay brackets.

A similar approach was taken with Cole Palmer following his impressive form, and with Nicolas Jackson, who moved from an initial salary to a higher remuneration after his transfer from Villarreal.

Last season, João Pedro became the first Chelsea striker since Diego Costa to score 20 goals in a single campaign without taking penalties.

He also netted three times during Chelsea's victorious Club World Cup campaign last summer and has eight goals in seven pre-season friendlies.

The Brazilian is expected to start in Chelsea's opening Premier League match against Fulham on Monday, with new signings Danny Welbeck and Emmanuel Emegha serving as his alternatives throughout the season.

His successes prompted the Chelsea management to entrust him with the number nine shirt, which Liam Delap had previously vacated.

Delap has been put up for sale for approximately £50 million, with Nottingham Forest and Leeds United reportedly interested.

Chelsea plans to offer new contracts to several key players after the transfer window closes, with Levi Colwill and Estevão likely among them.