Barcelona’s Deco Heads to London in Pursuit of Joao Pedro: Key Details and Next Steps

FC Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has traveled to London for fresh talks with Joao Pedro’s representatives, signaling a renewed push to secure the Brazilian forward as a potential successor to Robert Lewandowski. The move comes amid ongoing challenges in Barcelona’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez, with the Catalan club exploring multiple options to bolster its attacking options for the 2026/27 season.

Deco’s London Mission: A Strategic Move

Deco, accompanied by Bojan Krkic and Joao Amaral, the club’s scouting head, arrived in London to advance negotiations with Chelsea and Pedro’s agent. The Brazilian striker, who has been a consistent performer for Chelsea this season, has emerged as a top target for Barcelona’s technical staff, who view him as a “perfect fit” for the team’s evolving style under coach Hansi Flick.

This represents not the first time Deco has traveled to London to evaluate Pedro. The sporting director was present at the FA Cup final on May 9, 2026, where Chelsea faced Manchester City, allowing him to observe the 24-year-old in action. The trip underscores Barcelona’s determination to secure a young, versatile forward who can adapt to Flick’s tactical demands.

Why Joao Pedro? A Cost-Effective Alternative

Barcelona’s interest in Pedro has accelerated due to the complexities surrounding the potential signing of Julian Alvarez. While the Argentine remains a priority, the competition from Paris Saint-Germain and the financial hurdles of meeting Atlético Madrid’s asking price have prompted the club to explore alternatives. Pedro, currently valued at around £60 million by Chelsea, is seen as a more attainable option, with some reports suggesting a potential fee of €70 million.

“Joao Pedro represents a balance between quality, youth and cost,” a Barcelona source told Barca Blaugranes. “He has the technical ability and goal-scoring instincts that fit Flick’s vision, and his youth offers long-term value.” However, Chelsea has made it clear that Pedro is a key part of their project, and the club is unlikely to part with him easily.

The Role of Pedro’s Agent and Ongoing Negotiations

Joao Pedro’s agent has played a pivotal role in recent discussions, recently traveling to London to meet with both Chelsea, and Barcelona. According to Mundo Deportivo, the agent sought clarity on Barcelona’s intentions for a formal offer, with the club reportedly preparing a proposal that could be submitted in the coming weeks. The talks are expected to focus on financial terms, player flexibility, and the structure of the deal.

Barcelona’s financial situation also adds complexity. The club must adhere to the 1:1 spending rule, requiring them to offload players or secure significant