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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Joao Pedro joined the Blues from Brighton for £55m last year and enjoyed an impressive first full campaign in west London.
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He scored 15 Premier League goals and added three more in the Champions League, while Chelsea supporters voted him their Player of the Season.
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His form has continued into pre-season, with the striker scoring seven goals in five appearances.
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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.
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Alonso expects more from Chelsea striker
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Alonso has made clear that he expects Joao Pedro to remain hungry despite his strong performances last season.
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“He’s very hungry – Joao is really, really determined to have a great season,” the Chelsea manager said.
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“He wants to, after a great last year, where he scored many goals – I think that he wants to keep scoring more and more.”
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The Spanish coach also stressed that Pedro will need support from his team-mates to maintain his scoring output.
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Chelsea will hope the Brazilian’s form continues when they begin their Premier League campaign against Fulham next Monday.
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Fastrumours Information update spot
