Chelsea have announced the completed signing of Pedro from Barcelona after beating Manchester United in a deal worth up to £21.1m.
The Blues emerged as shock favourites to land Pedro on Wednesday after rapid negotiations with the Spanish club saw contact made, a deal agreed and personal terms negotiated all on Tuesday night.
Despite United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward flying to Barcelona earlier in the week to try and structure a deal, Pedro flew to London to undergo a medical with the Blues, and they have now confirmed the news on their official club website.
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A statement released by the club read: “Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Pedro from Barcelona.
“The Spaniard arrives as a highly coveted winger who can also play as a central striker. He is proven at the very highest level and already possesses an impressive medal haul.”
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Speaking to the club website, Pedro admitted his happiness at securing the move having grown unhappy at the lack of playing time at the Nou Camp, and is aiming to “keep winning titles” with the Londoners having accumulate an impressive medal haul during his time with Barcelona.
“I am very happy to be here. I am very excited to start my adventure at Chelsea and I am here to keep winning titles,” said Pedro.
“Thanks to the club and the supporters for giving me the opportunity to put the blue shirt on.”
Pedro leaves Barcelona after an incredibly successful six years in the first team, having come through the academy to make his professional debut in 2008 before becoming a regular figure two seasons later.
He was a part of the Barcelona sides that won the Champions League in 2008/09, 2010/11 and last season, and he five La Liga winners’ medals which spanned from 2008/09-2010/11 as well as 2012/13 and 2014/15.
The 28-year-old also has three Copa del Rey titles to his name, three Uefa Super Cups and two Fifa Club World Cups, but he will not get a chance to win a third when Barcelona feature once more in the worldwide tournament this December as defending Champions League winners.
Pedro’s success does not stop with Barcelona though, as the forward also featured in Spain’s successful 2010 World Cup side as well as the 2012 European Championship winning side. He’ll linked up at Chelsea with international team-mates Cesar Azpilicueta, Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas, who had a helping hand in convincing Pedro to choose Chelsea over United.
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