Joao Pedro has praised new Chelsea signing Danny Welbeck, describing the veteran forward as a 'top player' and a 'very important person' in his life. The Brazilian striker, who played alongside Welbeck at Brighton, believes the 35-year-old will have a significant impact both on and off the pitch at Stamford Bridge.
Surprise Move Completed
Chelsea completed a surprise move for the former England international at the start of August after agreeing a deal with Brighton. Welbeck, who began his career at Manchester United and also had a spell at Arsenal, has signed a two-year contract with the Blues. While neither club confirmed the transfer fee, Chelsea are believed to have paid around £7 million for the forward, who scored 13 goals in the Premier League last season.
Pedro's Personal Tribute
Speaking from Chelsea's pre-season training camp, Pedro told the club's official website: 'Personally, Danny is a very important person for me in life. When I came to England, I didn't speak English, but he always tried to be around me to support me and help me develop.' Pedro, who first encountered Welbeck at Watford in 2020 and later reunited with him at Brighton, added: 'This will now be the third time that we have played together and I think, as he did with me in the past, he will give support to everyone in the squad.'
Pedro emphasized Welbeck's character: 'Danny is this guy; he is very helpful and wants the best for everyone around him and for the team. Everyone knows that he is a top player. I'm looking forward to playing alongside him again and I think he will be a very good person to have in the group.'
Caicedo's Endorsement
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo, another former Brighton teammate, also endorsed the move. Caicedo said: 'When he arrived here, I gave him a hug because I was so happy when he signed. As a player and as a person, Danny is top. He helped me a lot when I arrived at Brighton. He was so important for me and to have him here at Chelsea, it feels good. I am so happy to have him here and he is going to help us a lot for sure. With his mentality, he has everything and he is going to be so important for us.'
Welbeck's Excitement
Welbeck, who was signed by manager Xabi Alonso, expressed his enthusiasm about the move. He said: 'When you hear of the interest from Chelsea, it's something that fills you with such immense pride. I know a few of the boys already and I've had fantastic conversations with the manager and already feel that connection. I've got that fire in my belly and I'm ready to give it everything for this club to make everyone at Chelsea, and the supporters, proud.'
Alonso's Summer Spending
Chelsea have backed Alonso with over £300 million worth of summer signings as they aim to improve on last season's disappointing 10th-place finish in the Premier League. The club's aggressive recruitment drive includes Welbeck, who brings a wealth of experience from his time at Manchester United, Arsenal, and Brighton.
