Joao Pedro extends Chelsea stay with new long-term deal

The striker's previous deal, signed when he joined from Brighton for £60 million ($82 million) a year ago, was set to run until 2032 with the option for an extra year.

The contract extension follows Joao Pedro's fine debut season for the Blues, when he scored 20 goals.

"I am very happy to sign a new contract with Chelsea," he told the club's website.

"I always dreamed of playing for a big club, and it means a lot to me to give my long-term commitment to this club. Chelsea has a long tradition of winning and it has big ambitions for the future.

"I have a very good relationship with everyone here at the club and I have felt at home here in London from the moment that I joined."

Joao Pedro, a surprise omission from the Brazil squad for this year's World Cup, has reportedly been the subject of interest from Barcelona and the contract extension is a sign of Chelsea's determination to keep the 24-year-old at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea, under new manager Xabi Alonso, begin their Premier League campaign away to west London rivals Fulham on Monday.