Barcelona eye Chelsea's Joao Pedro as potential Lewandowski successor
Barcelona are considering a move for Chelsea forward Joao Pedro as they plan for a future without veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, according to reports. The Catalan club are exploring attacking options ahead of the summer, with Lewandowski's contract set to expire in June, and have identified the Brazilian as a potential candidate.
According to journalist Simon Phillips, via CaughtOffside, Barcelona's interest in Joao Pedro is serious, though remains in its early stages. The 24-year-old only joined Chelsea from Brighton last summer but has impressed during his debut season at Stamford Bridge, scoring 18 goals and providing six assists across all competitions. Barcelona are said to have a budget of under €100 million for a new number nine, a figure which could facilitate a deal.
The primary target for the striker role remains Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez, but negotiations with the Spanish capital club are expected to be difficult. This has led Barcelona's sporting director Deco to assess alternative options, with Joao Pedro representing a profile that fits the club's financial constraints and long-term planning. His age and current form make him an appealing prospect for a squad in transition.
Joao Pedro's versatility, capable of playing across the front line, is viewed as both an asset and a potential concern, as Barcelona specifically seek a central focal point. However, his technical ability and link-up play are thought to be well-suited to Barcelona's style, potentially allowing him to combine effectively with wingers like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, as well as attacking midfielder Fermin Lopez.
For Chelsea, the prospect of selling a player after just one season may be unpalatable, particularly given his productive adaptation to the Premier League. The club invested significantly to secure him from Brighton and would likely demand a substantial fee to consider a sale. Any deal would test Barcelona's often-complicated financial levers and their ability to compete in a market where Premier League clubs hold significant economic power.
The potential departure of Lewandowski marks the end of a significant era for Barcelona, with the Polish international having been a consistent goal source since his 2022 arrival. Ferran Torres has also been linked with an exit, further underscoring the need for attacking reinforcements. Joao Pedro's proposed signing would signal a shift towards a younger, more dynamic forward line as manager Hansi Flick, or his successor, builds a new project.
Whether Barcelona's interest crystallizes into a formal offer will likely depend on the resolution of Lewandowski's situation and the feasibility of their other targets. The coming months will determine if Joao Pedro's future lies in London or Barcelona, with the Catalan club's need for a cost-effective yet potent attacking solution becoming increasingly urgent.
