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Chelsea make decision on 'world record' Joao Pedro sale

24 May 2026 16:01 BST | 4 min read

Joao Pedro, Chelsea

Cameron Smith

Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Accredited sports journalist covering football since 2020

Chelsea have no intention of selling Joao Pedro to Barcelona during the upcoming summer transfer window, and they will reportedly not even agree a deal if they receive a world-record bid for the 24-year-old.

Pedro has enjoyed an excellent debut campaign at Stamford Bridge this term, scoring 20 goals across all competitions for the Blues, and his form has unsurprisingly attracted the attention of Barcelona, who are in the market for a new striker this summer.

Hansi Flick’s side are expected to sign a new centre forward before the start of the 2026-27 season following confirmation that Robert Lewandowski will depart on a Bosman deal in July, and Pedro has been earmarked as an alternative to top target Julian Alvarez.

The Brazilian, who was omitted from his nation’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, still has seven years remaining on his current contract at Chelsea and it’s understood that he is set to play a key role under Xabi Alonso next term.

The Blues have already finalised a deal to sign Strasbourg striker Emmanuel Emegha this summer, but Pedro is expected to remain as the club’s preferred central attacker and Barca are set to experience disappointment in their pursuit of his signature.

That is according to transfer reporter Ben Jacobs, who posted on X" href="https://x.com/JacobsBen/status/2058544980264714459" target="_blank">X: “Although Barcelona’s interest in Joao Pedro is genuine, and some exploratory talks have taken place, Chelsea are not prepared to sell. There is no price that will change the club’s stance this summer, even a world-record bid.”

Neymar remains the most expensive player in football history following his €222 million move from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain, and his record will not be broken by his compatriot Pedro this summer if reports are to be believed.

Joao Pedro, Chelsea

Verdict: Chelsea are right to reject Joao Pedro sale

Chelsea’s stance on Pedro is a step in the right direction for BlueCo, who have made a number of questionable transfer decisions during their four-year reign at Stamford Bridge to date.

The Brazil forward is one of very few undoubtedly successful signings to have joined the club over the past few seasons and he is expected to play a key role for Chelsea next year as they look to secure Champions League qualification again.

Alonso will almost certainly be a huge fan of the 24-year-old and the fact he will be at Cobham for the entirety of pre-season due to his World Cup omission, alongside Cole Palmer, will be fantastic news for the new Chelsea manager.