Joao Pedro sends four-word message after confirmed Chelsea transfer
Joao Pedro has wished Jesse Derry well after he made his debut for Sporting CP following a loan move away from Chelsea.
Derry was mooted to head out on loan this summer after breaking into the first team at Chelsea last season.
Xabi Alonso sanctioned his exit last weekend as he headed to Portuguese giants Sporting on a season-long loan deal.
The 19-year-old is clearly highly rated by many at Stamford Bridge, as he also penned a new contract extension prior to the move to tie his future down until 2032.
Derry picked up his first minutes for his new club in a pre-season friendly against Scottish champions Celtic on Tuesday night.
The young winger impressed fans in a half-hour cameo, and took to social media following the game as Brazilian striker Pedro also had his say.
Joao Pedro reaches out to Jesse Derry on Instagram after Sporting debut
Derry played three times for Chelsea's first team last season, with interim manager Calum McFarlane handing him his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest in May.
His maiden league appearance suffered an unfortunate outcome, as he had to be stretchered off just before half-time following a clash of heads with Zach Abbott.
The 19-year-old also registered six goals and three assists in 18 PL2 games last season, so Sporting have high hopes that he can make a real impact during his loan stint.
Derry took to Instagram after his debut for the club to say: "Proud for my first minutes in these colours, fans were amazing. see you soon," with Chelsea star Pedro replying: "all the best bro."
What is the latest on Pedro's Chelsea future?
New Blues boss Alonso has set his stall out in recent days as he makes key decisions on several players' futures.
Andrey Santos and Tyrique George have already followed Derry out of the club, but on permanent deals, while Alejandro Garnacho is set to be sold this summer too.
Pedro impressed for Chelsea last term but failed to earn a place in Brazil's World Cup squad, leading to rumours around him potentially looking to leave the club this summer.
Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Barcelona could make an offer for Pedro as they struggle to complete a deal for Julian Alvarez.
Chelsea have reportedly informed the Catalan giants that he is not for sale, however, even though he is open to the move.