Chelsea are reportedly setting their sights on Brazil as a potential source for strengthening their squad in the upcoming seasons.
The club has already secured future deals for two of the country’s rising stars—Estevao Willian from Palmeiras, who will join the team in 2025, and Gabriel Mec from Gremio, scheduled to arrive in 2026.
Now, Chelsea’s attention has shifted to another promising Brazilian prospect, Joan Pedro Chermont, a young right-back currently playing for Santos.
Chermont comes from the same club that famously produced football legends Neymar Jr. and Pele.
According to a report by Brazilian outlet UOL, Chelsea have been closely monitoring the 18-year-old defender’s development and sent scouts to evaluate his performance during a Santos match against Operario in September.
The Premier League club is said to be highly impressed by his abilities and potential.
Chelsea have already made an initial offer of around €6 million for Chermont.
However, this bid was turned down by Santos, who value the player much higher.
Despite this setback, Chelsea are expected to return with a stronger bid during the upcoming January transfer window.
Chermont recently signed a new contract with Santos that runs until 2027, and this agreement includes a significant release clause set at €70 million.
Santos are reportedly firm on this figure and are not inclined to reduce the clause, making negotiations more complex for Chelsea.
Chermont is highly regarded at Santos and has established himself as a regular starter for the team, despite his young age.
So far this season, the right-back has made 24 appearances, during which he scored two goals and provided three assists, demonstrating his impact on both ends of the pitch.
Santos currently hold second place in Brazil’s Serie B, and Chermont is expected to play a crucial role in their bid to secure promotion back to the top flight of Brazilian football, Serie A.
In addition to his club performances, Chermont is also a member of Brazil’s U-20 national team, further underlining his potential.
For Chelsea, this pursuit of Chermont is part of a broader strategy to build for the future by targeting young talents from across the globe.
The club has been performing well under the leadership of manager Enzo Maresca this season.
Currently sitting in fourth place in the Premier League standings, Chelsea have won four of their six matches, with their only defeat coming against Manchester City in the season opener.
The team has also made significant progress in other competitions, including a dominant 5-0 victory over Barrow AFC in the third round of the Carabao Cup.
Additionally, Chelsea are participating in the UEFA Conference League this season.
They began their group stage campaign on a strong note, securing a 4-2 win over Belgian side Gent.
Their next challenge will come in the Premier League, where they face Nottingham Forest on October 6, a game where Chelsea will be eager to continue their positive momentum.
Overall, Chelsea’s interest in Chermont is just one part of their long-term vision to identify and nurture young talents from around the world, particularly from the talent-rich Brazilian market.
Whether they can secure Chermont’s signature remains to be seen, but the club is clearly committed to building a squad capable of sustaining success in the years to come.