Chelsea striker Joao Pedro enjoyed an excellent debut campaign at Stamford Bridge when many of his teammates failed to deliver the same level of consistency.
Following his £60 million transfer from Brighton & Hove Albion, Pedro hit the 20-goal mark for the Blues in all competitions. He even matched Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Diego Costa for Premier League goals scored in a debut campaign at Chelsea.
The 24-year-old proved to be a transfer masterstroke from BlueCo and is a player Xabi Alonso must build his team around once he officially arrives in West London on July 1.
Unsurprisingly, though, Pedro has drawn interest from Barcelona, with Hansi Flick eyeing a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. Sporting director Deco is said to be a huge admirer of the Brazilian, although it appears they've given up their pursuit of the Brazilian international.
Barcelona want Julian Alvarez after Joao Pedro snub
It was revealed on Wednesday that Pedro isn't for sale, with BlueCo deeming their prolific forward as "untouchable" this summer.
That was music to the ears of many Chelsea fans, who feared the idea of him leaving the club. Instead, it appears Barca have already moved on from their dream of signing the Blues No. 20 this summer.
🚨🔵🔴 Barcelona are preparing first official bid for Julián Álvarez, to be sent soon — and without any players included.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 28, 2026
Julián informed Atléti of desire to leave after rejecting a new deal months ago.
❗️ After direct meeting with agent & intermediaries, Barça will send a bid. pic.twitter.com/HNghMCJPy8
According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are preparing a "first official bid" for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez, only days after agreeing personal terms with former Chelsea target Anthony Gordon.
Alvarez has already expressed his desire to leave Atletico, and the Spanish giants have met with the 26-year-old's agent to discuss terms over a move.
The Argentine international plays in a similar role to Pedro, operating as either a centre forward or second striker, with the ability to play on the wing, too.
Pedro is "happy" at Chelsea
While it is excellent news that Barca are targeting an alternative option to Pedro, more importantly, the player is reportedly "happy" at Stamford Bridge.
To reiterate – Chelsea’s stance is that Joao Pedro is not for sale, they are not placing a valuation on him, and told the player himself is happy at #CFC https://t.co/H8yp4iFXo6
— Kieran Gill (@kierangill_DM) May 26, 2026
Daily Mail journalist Kieran Gill revealed on Tuesday that Pedro is satisfied with his situation at the club, despite failing to qualify for European football after finishing 10th in the Premier League and losing in the FA Cup final.
BlueCo even feel that the Brazilian is essentially priceless to the club, having not placed any valuation on him.
Chelsea must now show ambition in the transfer market and sign Premier League-ready players - just like Pedro - who can help the club challenge for the Champions League once more.
