Chelsea are said to be very reluctant to sell Brazilian striker Joao Pedro, in whom Barcelona have expressed “strong” interest, as the Catalans look to reinforce their striking line.
After a turbulent season, the Blues are highly unlikely to secure European football next season and are reportedly planning a reshuffle of their squad. However, Pedro is regarded as one of the untouchables, having been one of the standout performers after scoring 20 goals in his first campaign for the club.
It is understood that Barcelona have been monitoring the Brazilian and want him to replace Robert Lewandowski, whom the Catalans have announced will leave the club in the summer.
Barcelona sporting director and Chelsea legend Deco “has been in London this week for a series of meetings ahead of formulating transfer plans for the summer,” the Daily Mail reports.
Deco is said to regard Pedro highly as the perfect fit for Barça’s lineup, but Chelsea have made it clear that their “excellent” player is part of the club’s long-term plans.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup final, Chelsea interim head coach Calum McFarlane spoke glowingly of Pedro:
“He’s played many different positions, but he seems to have settled into that No 9 role, and he’s got everything you’d want from a top No 9.
“It’s a big summer coming up for him with the World Cup for Brazil, but he’s been excellent for Chelsea, and hopefully he continues that for the last three games.”
Pedro arrived at Chelsea on July 2, 2025, for a total transfer package worth £60 million from fellow Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion.
