Chelsea striker Joao Pedro has agreed a new contract with the club, strengthening his position as a key part of Xabi Alonso’s plans at Stamford Bridge.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the Brazil international has completed all the necessary paperwork for the new agreement, which will run until 2032 and includes an option for a further extension.
The deal does not necessarily increase the length of his existing commitment, but it will see the 24-year-old receive an improved salary.
Chelsea reward Pedro’s impressive form
The new agreement underlines Chelsea’s determination to keep Joao Pedro after he attracted interest from Barcelona earlier this summer.
Barcelona were reportedly prepared to consider a €100m move for the forward, but Chelsea maintained that he was not available for transfer.
Joao Pedro joined the Blues from Brighton for £55m last year and enjoyed an impressive first full campaign in west London.
He scored 15 Premier League goals and added three more in the Champions League, while Chelsea supporters voted him their Player of the Season.
His form has continued into pre-season, with the striker scoring seven goals in five appearances.
He netted a hat-trick against Western Sydney Wanderers after coming off the bench and followed that with braces against AC Milan and Real Sociedad.
Alonso expects more from Chelsea striker
Alonso has made clear that he expects Joao Pedro to remain hungry despite his strong performances last season.
“He’s very hungry – Joao is really, really determined to have a great season,” the Chelsea manager said.
“He wants to, after a great last year, where he scored many goals – I think that he wants to keep scoring more and more.”
The Spanish coach also stressed that Pedro will need support from his team-mates to maintain his scoring output.
Chelsea will hope the Brazilian’s form continues when they begin their Premier League campaign against Fulham next Monday.