In a moment that has sent shockwaves through the Chelsea fanbase, new head coach Enzo Maresca has delivered a blunt 9-word statement regarding João Pedro, just as Fabrizio Romano confirms that Chelsea have opened formal negotiations with Brighton for the Brazilian forward.
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🗣️ Maresca’s Chilling Words:
> “He’s not just a target — he’s essential.”
💥 Nine words. One message. Massive implications.
This simple but powerful declaration makes it clear that Maresca views João Pedro as a key pillar in his tactical rebuild at Stamford Bridge, not merely an option.
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🔄 Transfer Negotiations in Motion
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have already initiated direct discussions with Brighton, with the following details emerging:
🧾 Chelsea preparing an official bid in the coming days
📈 Brighton open to selling — but only at the right price
💸 The fee could exceed £45–50 million, given João Pedro’s age, versatility, and proven Premier League ability
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⚙️ Why João Pedro?
Enzo Maresca’s 3-2-4-1 system demands:
A fluid, technically gifted attacker
Someone who can drift between lines, press intelligently, and create space
João Pedro ticks every box — and with Chelsea lacking a consistent creative spark in attack, the 22-year-old fits Maresca’s vision perfectly.
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🔵 Chelsea Fans React:
Fans are split:
Some excited by Pedro’s potential in a dynamic setup
Others concerned about his consistency and Brighton’s price tag
Many shocked that Maresca would label him “essential” over other higher-profile targets
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⚠️ What This Means:
This could accelerate Chelsea’s summer strategy, possibly triggering exits for players like Broja or Madueke as the attack is reshaped around Maresca’s ideals.
👀 All eyes are now on Brighton’s response — and whether Chelsea will move swiftly to secure what their new manager considers a non-negotiable
signing.
Stay tuned. The João Pedro saga is just beginning.