Chelsea Concerned Over Barcelona's Interest in Joao Pedro

Barcelona's decision to make Joao Pedro their top target to replace Robert Lewandowski has caused real concern at Chelsea. According to Mundo Deportivo, sporting director Deco has been in contact with the player's representatives for weeks, with initial talks held in April and renewed last week. The report suggests the Brazilian star himself views Barcelona as a rare career opportunity and is open to the move.

For a player raised on Ronaldinho and Neymar, that emotional connection reportedly matters, with a potential transfer fee estimated at around €100 million. Barcelona's priority had initially been Julian Alvarez, but PSG's involvement in that pursuit has complicated matters, pushing Joao Pedro into sharper focus. His omission from Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad also hurt him personally, with head coach Carlo Ancelotti saying: "We feel sorry for Joao Pedro, he deserved to be here."

Chelsea, for their part, are not standing idle. According to the report, the London club is offering the forward, currently under contract until 2033, a new deal that includes a pay rise, in an effort to permanently close off Barcelona's option. The move is seen both as a reward for his strong Premier League form last season and as an attempt to discourage Barcelona's interest.

Source: Mundo Deportivo
Image: Be Soccer