Chelsea plan Joao Pedro contract upgrade as Barcelona keep watch

Chelsea are preparing to improve Joao Pedro’s current contract after the Brazil international attracted interest from Barcelona, according to The Athletic.

The 24-year-old forward joined Chelsea from Brighton last summer in a deal worth more than £50m. He signed a seven-year contract, which runs until 2032, but the club now intends to reward his impact during his first season at Stamford Bridge by revising its financial terms.

Sources familiar with the situation told The Athletic that Joao Pedro is in line for improved conditions on his existing agreement. The move reflects Chelsea’s determination to keep a player they regard as an important part of their plans, rather than make him available during the summer transfer window.

The Athletic reported in June that Joao Pedro had emerged as a player admired by Barcelona. Chelsea were aware of interest from other clubs and subsequently placed him among the members of their squad who were considered not for sale this summer.

Joao Pedro was one of the standout performers in Chelsea’s attack last season. He scored 23 goals and provided nine assists in 53 appearances, establishing himself as the team’s first-choice forward. The Athletic also named him Chelsea’s player of the season.

Chelsea are expected to reach new agreements with other players in the coming weeks, meaning Joao Pedro is not the only member of the squad who could receive an improved deal.

Reflecting on his campaign in an interview with Chelsea in April, Joao Pedro described it as one of the best seasons of his career.

“I’m really happy. I think it was one of the best seasons of my life. I think the expectations wanted from me were high, so I always try to keep my mentality forward to help my team-mates,” he said.

Joao Pedro has won eight caps for Brazil, but he was left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

He made an immediate impact in Chelsea’s pre-season preparations on 28 July, scoring a hat-trick in nine minutes during a 6-4 victory over Western Sydney Wanderers.

The forward’s form has strengthened his position within Enzo Maresca’s side and increased the importance of Chelsea securing his future. His long-term contract already ties him to the club until 2032, while the proposed improvement would recognise his contribution since arriving from Brighton and underline his status as a central figure in the club’s plans.