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Chelsea block Barcelona's pursuit of Joao Pedro with untouchable declaration

·By Paul Lindisfarne
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Chelsea block Barcelona's pursuit of Joao Pedro with untouchable declaration

Chelsea/X.com

Chelsea have made clear they have no intention of selling João Pedro this summer, shutting down Barcelona's pursuit of the striker before it has had a chance to develop.

The Brazilian forward scored 20 goals in all competitions across what has been a difficult season at Stamford Bridge, including 15 in the Premier League. He is set to be named the club's player of the season and will lead the line in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley under interim head coach Calum McFarlane.

Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano was unambiguous about Chelsea's position.

"João Pedro is very important to Chelsea, they won't want to sell him to FC Barcelona. Barcelona really like João Pedro, they consider him a fantastic striker. But Chelsea are absolutely considering João Pedro as a crucial part of the project. After a difficult season, to sell probably the only player who performed in a top, top way — that will be complicated."

Chelsea sources briefed to the Daily Mail describe Pedro as one of their "untouchables" and that this summer will be for strengthening the squad under a new head coach, not weakening it. The Athletic similarly reported the club will not listen to offers.

Pedro signed from Brighton last summer for £55 million rising to £60 million and is contracted until 2033. He also scored three goals at the Club World Cup at the end of last season, including one in the final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Barcelona's interest is genuine. Deco has admired Pedro since his time at Brighton and Hansi Flick's side are looking to move quickly given Lewandowski's contract expires at the end of this month and a renewal has not been agreed. Deco had reportedly made contact with Pedro's representatives, who were described as open to a move given Chelsea's likely absence from European competition next season.

Chelsea's position makes that irrelevant for now. A fee of between €80-100 million has been discussed in the press as the notional value, though the club insist the conversation will not be opened.