Pedro scored the winner in extra-time in last week's European Super Cup against Sevilla.

Chelsea are close to usurping Manchester United in the pursuit of Barcelona forward Pedro Rodríguez, with the Old Trafford club ending their interest in the Spain international.

Chelsea have agreed to pay a fee of €28 million (£19.7m) with a further €2m (£1.4m) in add-ons to sign the winger, who is expected to undergo a medical in London on Wednesday, according to sources.

United have pursued Pedro for much of the summer but the Spaniard is understood to have become frustrated with the Red Devils' unwillingness to match Barcelona's asking price of €30m, while conversations with close friend and former team-mate Victor Valdes have left him wary of Louis van Gaal's management style.

Chelsea need to boost their own attacking options before the close of the summer transfer window following a miserable start to the new season.

Pedro's arrival will likely trigger the departure of Juan Cuadrado with Juventus waiting in the wings to sign the Colombian. His pace and work-ethic will also add greater protection to a defence that has come under scrutiny in the opening Premier League games.

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