Carlton Cole Predicts Joao Pedro’s Goal Tally as Chelsea’s Leading Striker

Joao Pedro has caught the eye of former Chelsea forward Carlton Cole, who believes the Brazilian could score in the "high double figures" this season. Filling the iconic No.9 role at Stamford Bridge, Pedro has already netted three goals in the 2026-27 campaign.

From Brighton to Chelsea for a £60 Million Move

Last season, Pedro reached 20 goals across all competitions during his first year in London. His transfer from Brighton last summer reportedly cost up to £60 million, following an impressive spell with the Seagulls where his consistent scoring attracted top clubs. Before Brighton, Pedro had his first taste of English football at Watford as a highly talented teenager.

Now 24 years old, he holds eight senior caps for Brazil but was surprisingly left out of the 2026 World Cup squad by Carlo Ancelotti. That disappointment seems behind him as he enjoys a strong start domestically.

Strong Support Behind Chelsea’s Main Striker

With England internationals Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers playing just behind him, chances rarely dry up for Pedro. His game has sharpened through experience, improving his timing and movement to find decisive positions.

He possesses key attributes needed in England’s top league: speed, strength, and accuracy. Many now place him alongside Manchester City’s Erling Haaland among the Premier League’s most dangerous forwards.

Where Does Pedro Rank? Carlton Cole Weighs In

Speaking exclusively to GOAL via LiveScore Bet, Cole said, "He's doing really well, the boy. When he’s not playing, you see the impact on the team, which shows how important he is to what [Xabi] Alonso is building. I think he could hit high double figures if he stays fit and is used properly. He’s definitely one to watch this season."

Cole added that having former teammate Danny Welbeck around helps Pedro settle, giving him confidence rather than feeling displaced. "Only Alonso knows the kind of motivation Pedro needs to reach those numbers, and maybe Welbeck supports him in that goal. Chelsea made a smart decision backing him," Cole said.

Alonso Compares Pedro to Benzema

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso aims to maximize Pedro’s potential. Having played alongside great strikers like Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid, Alonso sees similarities between Pedro and Karim Benzema.

"If you count the top strikers in the Premier League, Joao is definitely there along with Haaland," Alonso said. "He reminds me of Benzema because he’s effective inside and outside the box, can use his left side, is strong in the air, very complete and intelligent. He’s young with room to grow but already has many outstanding qualities."

Pedro’s Confidence and Upcoming Recovery

Despite nursing a minor knee injury recently, Pedro remains confident about establishing himself among elite forwards such as Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe. Chelsea’s form dipped before the international break, earning only one point from their last three Premier League matches, but they aim to bounce back when they face Bournemouth at home on October 10.

• Next Fixture: Chelsea vs AFC Bournemouth
• Date & Time: 10 October 2026, 17:00