It was no secret that FC Barcelona wanted to sign Julián Álvarez from Atlético Madrid. The Argentine striker was also interested in joining the reigning Spanish champions, with veteran Robert Lewandowski leaving, media reports had said. However, a potential deal now seems to be off the table.
Obviously, Atlético are not very keen on selling their talented striker to a direct league rival. However, financial complications are the main reason for Barcelona's hopes of getting their target being culled. The race for his signature could well be between PSG and Arsenal, reports said.
The "financial complications" mean Barça are looking for alternative options, and Chelsea's João Pedro could well be the answer, a fresh report said. The Brazilian was Chelsea's best performer of the season, managing to adapt quickly whilst many others struggled.
With Xabi Alonso set to take over, doubts have arisen about the 24-year-old's future despite a good season. It remains to be seen if Pedro is the kind of player that the former Real Madrid manager would like to spearhead his attack. If not, Hansi Flick and Barcelona are reportedly ready to pounce.
Barcelona intermediaries have already made initial communication with people close to the player's camp, TeamTalk said in a report. The Chelsea higher-ups, meanwhile, are hopeful that Pedro will be a crucial part of Alonso's plans. There is no information on the asking price, as the Blues are confident that their in-form player would not want to leave. It is claimed that Pedro holds no bias against the Catalan side and will consider a move if the situation demands it.
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Pedro cost the London side £60 million when he arrived from Brighton & Hove Albion last summer. Chelsea’s Player of the Season, known for his versatility and skills in particular, managed 23 goals and nine assists in his debut season at the club. Chelsea will fight to secure a Europa League slot with one round left to play.
