Barcelona director Deco has been in London to discuss with Chelsea the possibility of selling Joao Pedro during the upcoming transfer window.
Despite Chelsea’s underwhelming season, Joao Pedro has stood out in his first season at Stamford Bridge since his move from Brighton.
The Brazilian is set to sit down with Xabi Alonso soon to discuss his future. If he stays, his World Cup omission will give him a full pre-season with the new manager.
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Chelsea tell Deco they will not sell Joao Pedro to Barcelona
Alonso sees Pedro as an untouchable, and he will be thankful that it is echoed by the decision makers at the club following a recent meeting with Deco.
Fabrizio Romano reported on his YouTube channel that the Blues have made it clear to Barcelona that there is no room for negotiations when it comes to the attacker this summer.
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He said: “Tonight, Deco, the Barcelona director, returned from England. He’s been in England to discuss several things. Many questions. He said he know the camp of Joao Pedro very well. I told you already, Deco wanted to sign Joao Pedro when he was at Brighton, but was not possible.
“But, what I can tell you is that Chelsea’s stance remains ‘we want to keep Joao Pedro’. Their message remains ‘Joao Pedro is a crucial part of the project.”
“That’s the stance of Chelsea. And you can imagine that after a tough season, without European football and a new, ambitious coach like Xabi Alonso, Chelsea have all the intention to keep the player at the club.
“It’s going to be difficult for Barcelona to break this wall for Joao Pedro.”
Chelsea are braced for efforts to sign a number of their top players this summer. Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella are also wanted in Spain.
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Chelsea need competition for Pedro
Despite Pedro proving himself as a clear starter this season, it is fair to say that he has not been pushed too hard for his place in the side.
Liam Delap has endured a woeful first campaign in a Chelsea shirt, sparking rumours that he could be sold this summer.
The Blues need some serious competition in the position, which could also allow Pedro to impact play from a deeper role too.
Nicolas Jackson will technically be a Chelsea player again from July, with many supporters not giving up hope he can be brought back into the side.
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