Barcelona has reportedly identified Chelsea forward João Pedro as their primary target for the number nine position this summer, and Director of Football Deco is proactively pursuing this transfer. Pedro is currently focused on Chelsea’s pursuit of Champions League qualification, with the team needing positive results in their final two league matches.
Having reportedly deemed a move for Atlético Madrid striker Julian Álvarez too challenging, Deco has now shifted his focus to Pedro, whom he believes could be a strong alternative for the striker role. While earlier reports suggested Barcelona could secure a deal for around €70 million, the latest information from London indicates that Chelsea will demand a minimum of €100 million for the player.
Deco in London to Meet with Chelsea and Pedro’s Agent
According to reports from MD and Sport, Deco arrived in London on Friday for meetings with João Pedro’s agent and Chelsea officials. He has been in communication with the agent recently, but his primary objective is to engage with Chelsea to understand their stance on a potential transfer. Chelsea is also preparing for the FA Cup final on Saturday against Manchester City, which Pedro’s agent is attending.
Other Striking Options for Barcelona
Beyond Pedro and Álvarez, several other forwards have been linked with Barcelona in recent months. Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martínez has re-emerged as a target, following a period of reduced interest. Compared to Martínez and Álvarez, Pedro is the youngest of the trio, but also possesses less top-level experience. Martínez, Álvarez, and Pedro represent different attacking profiles, with Pedro perhaps being the most similar in characteristics to Robert Lewandowski.
English Translation:
Barcelona Director of Football Flies to London to Meet with Agent of Chelsea Forward
Barcelona have reportedly identified Chelsea forward João Pedro as their top priority for the number nine position this summer, and Sporting Director Deco is acting swiftly to secure the deal. Pedro is currently involved in Chelsea’s push for Champions League qualification, requiring favorable results in the season’s final two games.
After reportedly deciding that a move for Atlético Madrid striker Julian Álvarez is likely to be too difficult, Deco has seemingly redirected his attention to Pedro, who he believes could be a strong alternative for the number nine role. Reports on Thursday indicated that Barcelona felt a deal could be struck for approximately €70 million, but the latest updates from London suggest Chelsea will demand at least €100 million for his services.
Deco Flies to London to Meet with Chelsea and Pedro’s Agent
According to both MD and Sport, Deco arrived in London on Friday to meet with Pedro’s agent and Chelsea representatives. He has been in contact with the agent in recent weeks, but his primary aim is to engage with Chelsea and ascertain their views on a potential transfer. The Blues are competing in the FA Cup final on Saturday against Manchester City, an event his agent is attending.
Barcelona’s Other Forward Alternatives
Several other names have been linked with Barcelona in recent months, in addition to Pedro and Álvarez. Inter captain Lautaro Martínez is another player back on their radar, after their interest cooled in previous years. Compared to Martínez and Álvarez, Pedro is the youngest of the three, but by the same token, has significantly less experience at the top level. Martínez, Álvarez, and Pedro each represent different types of forwards, with the Brazilian perhaps being the closest in characteristics to Robert Lewandowski.
