Chelsea forward Joao Pedro
Chelsea forward Joao Pedro
Barcelona have already identified Chelsea‘s João Pedro as the main alternative to Atlético Madrid star Julián Alvarez.
Two months ago, Barca sporting director Deco made a trip to England to negotiate for the striker.
At that time, the Catalan media were confident the Chelsea star’s price will be below €70m, after Carlo Ancelotti left him out of Brazil’s World Cup squad.
Meanwhile, the La Liga winners have suffered a blow in their pursuit of Alvarez. Atlético have ruled out allowing the Argentina international to leave even though he has publicly asked for that.
Barcelona looking at Chelsea man
The Julián Alvarez situation has seen the Catalan club shift their focus on João Pedro.
That’s according to Sunday’s edition of Sport, who covers Barcelona’s interest and the Blues’ stance.
Deco likes the Brazilian, who joined Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion in June 2025. He finished his debut season at Stamford Bridge with 20 goals and nine assists from 50 matches.
The 24-year-old operates in multiple positions, which makes him more attractive for Hansi Flick’s side.
Chelsea take firm stance
The Blues appreciate and have high hopes on the South American, both now and for the future. There’s firm belief within the club he has to be the cornerstone of their project.
Xabi Alonso also shares the same view as the Premier League side and considers João Pedro as ‘untouchable’, meaning non-transferable. This is mainly because of his technical qualities, versatility and ability to adapt to different systems.
The coach believes the former Watford man suits the type of football he wants Chelsea to play.
Therefore, the west London club are now standing firm and are refusing to negotiate or even listen to any offers for Pedro.
After Atlético Madrid’s refusal to sell Julián Alvarez, Barcelona see Chelsea rule out a deal for the Brazilian.
The La Liga winners have to look elsewhere in their efforts to find Robert Lewandowski’s replacement.
Key transfer points
Barca identified Pedro as Julián Alvarez’s main alternative in May
Atlético block Argentine’s exit
La Liga winners focus on Chelsea star
Blues refuse to sell, Pedro key for Alonso
🇧🇷 Denner | Exclusive: Player travelling to England next week to complete Chelsea transfer
✈️ Flying for final transfer process in the coming dayshttps://t.co/FgmtcZ7oKk #cfc
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) July 16, 2026