'He can justify that fee': Alan Pardew explains why Chelsea are getting a 'great player' in Joao Pedro
Ex-Premier League manager Alan Pardew has backed Chelsea’s move for Brighton & Hove Albion forward Joao Pedro.
Pardew‘s former club Newcastle United were also interested in signing the 23-year-old, but Pedro has decided to join Chelsea this summer.
Pedro scored 10 goals in 27 Premier League appearances last season, helping Brighton to finish inside the top eight.
The campaign before that, the Brazilian scored nine times in 31 outings, netting against his future club during a 3-2 defeat at Stamford Bridge.
- READ MORE: Chelsea have £50m proposal rejected for ‘fantastic’ forward, they still want him and Joao Pedro
Alan Pardew talks up Joao Pedro’s experience and versatility
In the past, Pardew has been quite critical of Enzo Maresca and his style of football. However, the 63-year-old has been pretty complimentary of Pedro.
Speaking about his imminent move to Chelsea on talkSPORT, Pardew said: “This fee does look excessive, but obviously Newcastle wanted him, he’s established, he can play through the middle, he can play off the side, he gives you great variation, so I think he’s a great player. It’s a big fee, but I think he can justify that fee.”
According to reports, the Blues will be paying a sum in excess of £50m to sign Pedro from Brighton.
It is significantly more than what they paid for Liam Delap, who cost the club just £30m. However, the England Under-21 international had a release clause in his contract, which became active following Ipswich Town’s relegation to the Championship.
Delap and Pedro are now set to become teammates and possibly compete for the No.9 position at Stamford Bridge. Arsenal reportedly have Nicolas Jackson on their shortlist, but he is also a striker option for now.
Why Enzo Maresca wants Joao Pedro
Pardew and Maresca may disagree on how football should be played, but they seem to be on the same page when it comes to Pedro.
It is thought that Maresca is also a fan of Pedro’s versatility, which is the main reason behind Chelsea’s interest in the Brazil international.
As Pardew pointed out, Pedro can play up top and out wide. The former Watford star can also play as a second striker.
Once Chelsea sign Pedro as expected, there are plenty of things that Maresca will be able to do with him.
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