Joao Pedro signs new deal at Chelsea and takes on club’s ‘cursed’ No. 9 shirt

Brazilian striker Joao Pedro has inked a new deal with Chelsea, committing to the club until 2034. The extension also sees him taking on the No. 9 jersey, a number that has proven challenging for many forwards over the years. Pedro's previous contract, signed upon his arrival from Brighton a year ago, was set to run until 2032 with an option for an additional year.

The new agreement, which includes an initial payment of $205.00 plus GST, is seen as an acknowledgment of his impressive performance in his debut season at Chelsea, where he scored 20 goals. Reflecting on his long-term commitment to the club, Pedro expressed his excitement about joining a team with a rich history of success and ambitious goals for the future.

Despite being left out of Brazil's World Cup squad, Pedro is set to become Chelsea's primary striker under new manager Xabi Alonso, with Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson now available for transfer. The No. 9 shirt, previously worn by Delap, has been a difficult fit for 13 players who have struggled to make a lasting impact since Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink donned it.