It could end up being a very interesting summer for Chelsea star Joao Pedro.
Pedro will miss the World Cup after being left out of the Brazil squad, but he is still being touted for a possible move to Barcelona.
Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has reportedly been in the process of trying to sign Pedro and has now given an update on the forward.
Deco refuses to rule out Barcelona signing Joao Pedro
With Robert Lewandowski leaving the Camp Nou at the end of the season, Barcelona are in dire need of a new centre-forward.
DISCUSS: Robert Lewandowski on a free transfer
Robert Lewandowski graphic with bold statement
Photo by David Ramirez/Soccrates/Getty Images
Deco was quizzed about the Catalan club’s interest in Pedro and Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez but was quite coy on the subject.
“We’re not ruling anyone out, nor are we signing anyone,” the former Barcelona and Chelsea star was quoted as saying by Mundo Deportivo. “These are internal matters. What we have to guarantee is that we’re going to work as we do every year.
“We’ve lost a very important player like Robert, and of course we’re going to try to strengthen the team.”
Lewandowski’s shoes will be difficult to fill, but Pedro looks more than capable of doing a job up front for Hansi Flick’s side after the season he has had at Chelsea.
Joao Pedro of Chelsea poses
Photo by Harriet Lander – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
In 29 games, the 24-year-old has scored 20 goals. It was not enough to earn him a spot in Brazil’s squad for the World Cup, which is hugely disappointing for Pedro.
Last year, Pedro spoke about his dream of winning the World Cup with Brazil, but he will now not get the chance to do that until 2030.
Still, it has been a bright campaign for Pedro, which could end up earning him a move to Barcelona.
Joao Pedro could get more support at Chelsea
Whatever happens with Pedro, Chelsea could sign a new striker this summer. It means if the Brazil international stays, there should be an adequate alternative to him.
There are rumours about Victor Osimhen potentially joining Chelsea after being linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the last few years.
Such an addition would give Chelsea more firepower and ease the load on Pedro, who has practically carried the team’s attack alongside Enzo Fernandez this season.
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