Chelsea preparing €60m bid to sign Brazilian star

Chelsea are preparing a bid worth €60 million to sign Brighton & Hove Albion forward Joao Pedro, according to GE in Brazil.

The Blues are keen on bolstering their attack ahead of the Club World Cup and they are determined to land a new centre-forward.

Pedro has now emerged as the prime target and the club are prepared to make a huge outlay of around €60m to persuade Brighton into a sale.

The former Watford man has 16 goal contributions for the Seagulls in the Premier League. He has vastly played upfront or in a second-striker role.

Pedro could compete for places with Nicolas Jackson next campaign. The Blues are not exploring a deal for a marquee striking option.

The club have belief in Jackson's ability and feel Pedro would be an ideal competitor. A marquee striker may not accept a rotational role.

Talks are underway at the club level. A deal could materialise after the season ends. Pedro won't face Spurs this weekend due to disciplinary issues.