Chelsea have officially confirmed the signing of João Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion in a deal worth £60 million, including add-ons. The Brazilian forward has penned a seven-year contract with the London club, becoming one of the first marquee signings under the Blues’ summer transfer strategy.

The transfer includes a £55 million fixed fee, with an additional £5 million in performance-based bonuses, as reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

João Pedro, 23, impressed during his spell at Brighton, showcasing a combination of flair, technical ability, and finishing that made him one of the Premier League’s most exciting young forwards. His move to Stamford Bridge signals Chelsea’s intent to strengthen their attacking options following an underwhelming 2024/25 campaign.

The long-term contract also reflects Chelsea’s continued investment in young talent, with the club aiming to build a dynamic and competitive squad for the future.

The announcement has sparked excitement among Chelsea fans, many of whom see João Pedro as a natural fit for the club’s style of play and a valuable addition to the frontline.

More updates are expected as Chelsea prepare for preseason, with João Pedro likely to make his debut during the club’s summer tour.

Atlético Madrid have officially completed the signing of Spanish midfielder Alex Baena from Villarreal, in a deal worth €45 million plus €5 million in add-ons.

The transfer, confirmed by renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano on July 2, 2025, sees Baena make the switch to the Wanda Metropolitano after rising through the ranks at Villarreal and establishing himself as one of La Liga’s most promising young talents.

At just 23, Baena has impressed with his creativity, work rate, and versatility in midfield. His performances last season for the Yellow Submarine caught the attention of top clubs across Europe, but it was Atlético who moved decisively to secure his signature.

Baena’s arrival is expected to bolster Diego Simeone’s squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, as the club looks to compete for both domestic and European honours. The deal is seen as a significant investment in the future of Atlético’s midfield, with the add-ons likely tied to performance and appearances.

The transfer marks a key moment in Atlético’s summer business and signals their intent to build a dynamic and competitive squad capable of challenging their rivals at the top of La Liga.

Borussia Dortmund began their FIFA Club World Cup journey with a 2–1 triumph over Mexican side CF Monterrey on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. A first-half double from Serhou Guirassy was enough to push the Bundesliga side into the quarter-finals, setting up a blockbuster clash with Real Madrid.

Guirassy Shines Early

The match started brightly for Dortmund, with Guirassy breaking the deadlock in the 14th minute. The striker latched onto a slick pass from Karim Adeyemi and tucked the ball past the Monterrey goalkeeper. Just ten minutes later, he was on the scoresheet again, this time finishing off another well-placed delivery from Adeyemi to make it 2–0.

Guirassy had chances to seal a hat-trick before halftime but was denied by some sharp goalkeeping and an off-target strike.

Monterrey Respond With Fight

The Liga MX side came out stronger in the second half, pulling one back in the 48th minute through Germán Berterame, who headed home after some intricate buildup play involving Jesús Corona and Érick Aguirre.

Monterrey maintained pressure throughout the half, with Sergio Ramos nearly leveling the score when his chipped effort shaved the post. Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel was called into action multiple times, making crucial saves to keep his side ahead.

Defensive Resolve and a Quarter-Final Date

Despite the relentless attacks, Dortmund’s defense held steady, backed by Kobel’s safe hands. The win didn’t come without cost, however—Jobe Bellingham picked up a yellow card, ruling him out of the quarter-final against Real Madrid due to suspension.

Dortmund will now turn their attention to the highly anticipated showdown with the Spanish champions in New Jersey. While the absence of Jobe Bellingham puts a damper on the potential family face-off with brother Jude Bellingham, the match remains a headline-grabber in the tournament’s next stage.