Barcelona have placed Chelsea forward Joao Pedro on their shortlist of alternative attacking targets for the 2026/27 season, according to Spanish radio station Cadena SER.
Chelsea forward Joao Pedro lands on Barcelona’s summer shortlist
The Blaugrana fully expect to strengthen their centre-forward position this summer.
Sporting director Deco and his team view a reliable goalscorer as a major priority, especially with doubts lingering over the long-term futures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres at the Camp Nou.
Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez remains the club’s undisputed primary target.
However, Barcelona recognise that negotiating a deal for the Argentine international will prove extremely difficult.
Consequently, the Catalan giants have drawn up a contingency list of backup options.
Joao Pedro now emerges as a name circled in red on that list.
The Brazilian international enjoys a fine individual campaign at Chelsea, where he has already registered 19 goals and nine assists across all competitions.
His all-around play, physical presence, and eye for goal have caught the attention of Barcelona’s recruitment team.
The 24-year-old fits the profile Barcelona seek – a mobile, modern striker capable of leading the line for years to come.
Unlike Lewandowski, who turns 38 next season, Pedro represents a long-term investment.
Chelsea would likely demand a significant fee for their star forward. The Premier League side invested heavily to sign Pedro from Brighton in 2023, and he remains under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2028.
Barcelona’s ongoing financial constraints mean any move would require careful structuring, likely involving player sales or a loan with an obligation to buy.
For now, Deco continues to push for Alvarez. But should that pursuit fail, Joao Pedro stands ready as a strong alternative.
The coming months will reveal whether Barcelona move decisively for the Chelsea man – or keep him as a plan B that never gets activated.
