According to SPORTbible, FC Barcelona are reportedly poised for a significant summer transfer window, with Chelsea forward Joao Pedro emerging as their top priority to potentially replace veteran striker Robert Lewandowski.
Lewandowski, who turns 38 in August, sees his contract at Camp Nou expire next month, and his future appears increasingly uncertain. The prolific Polish forward has reportedly received a staggering contract offer from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, valued at €90 million per season, according to Polish outlet SportoweFakty. This lucrative proposal could signal the end of his tenure with the Catalan giants.
Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, is moving swiftly, with Brazilian outlet Globo reporting that the club has identified Joao Pedro as their primary target. Deco is reportedly keen to enter talks imminently, planning “formal meetings” with the player’s entourage next week, ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
Joao Pedro’s rising stock
At just 24 years old, Joao Pedro has been a standout performer for Chelsea this season, netting 20 goals across all competitions. His impressive form comes despite what has been described as a challenging campaign for his club. He recently recovered from a muscle injury that saw him miss two games last month and has since returned to action, earning a place in Brazil’s 55-man preliminary squad for the World Cup under head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
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Joao Pedro’s career trajectory has seen him steadily climb the ranks:
- He spent nine months as a senior professional with Brazilian club Fluminense.
- Agreed to sign for Watford at 17, officially moving to Vicarage Road a year later.
- Joined Brighton & Hove Albion in 2023 for a club-record £30 million fee.
- Moved to Chelsea last summer for an initial £55 million.
Barcelona’s broader striker search
The Spanish champions are looking to sign two strikers this summer to cover for potential departures. Beyond Lewandowski, Barcelona could also see changes to their attacking lineup. ESPN claimed in March that the club would “listen to offers” for Ferran Torres, while Marcus Rashford is currently set to return to Manchester United unless a permanent deal can be struck following his loan spell.
While Joao Pedro is the immediate focus, Barcelona also maintains existing interest in Julian Alvarez, whom they were linked with last summer. However, the urgency surrounding Lewandowski’s situation and Joao Pedro’s current form makes the Chelsea forward the prime candidate as Barcelona looks to rebuild its attacking options for the new season.
Sources: www.sportbible.com, Globo
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