Chelsea 'pushing for Joao Pedro transfer' in bad news for two Enzo Maresca stars

Chelsea are locked in a tussle with Newcastle over the signing of Brighton's star striker, Joao Pedro. Newcastle have already seen their bid exceeding £50 million rejected by Brighton, who are unwilling to let their Brazilian ace leave on a bargain.

The Blues are also expressing interest in the 23-year-old forward, having held talks about bringing him on board to bolster their attacking options. This move could cast doubts over the futures of Christopher Nkunku, who is rumoured to be on Manchester United's radar, and Nicolas Jackson.

Jackson has been serving bans in two different competitions after being shown red cards in both the Club World Cup and the Premier League.

Brighton have turned down offers from two separate Premier League clubs for Pedro, with Liverpool and Arsenal also reportedly interested in the versatile forward who can operate centrally or out wide.

While Chelsea have initiated discussions, they are now pushing to finalise a deal, although it remains uncertain whether an agreement can be reached. The Blues have been particularly active in this transfer window.

Brighton secured Pedro's services from Watford in a deal worth approximately £30 million back in the summer of 2023, and will be looking to make a substantial profit. With 30 goals in 70 appearances for Albion, Pedro has long been on Newcastle's radar, who showed interest as early as 2022.

However, Newcastle now find themselves in a battle with Chelsea and other Premier League clubs for the Brazilian's signature.

Pedro was excluded from Fabian Hurzeler's squad for the final two Premier League matches of the season following an alleged training ground disagreement with Dutch defender Jan Paul van Hecke.

His future could now lie elsewhere if any club is willing to meet Brighton's asking price.

If Chelsea do stump up the cash, he would join Jamie Gittens at Stamford Bridge after the Blues reached an agreement with Borussia Dortmund to sign the English winger for £55m.