Barcelona sporting director met agent of top attacking target in London this week | OneFootball

In the wake of economic uncertainties, Barcelona appear to have moved on from Julian Alvarez and are focusing on another top attacking target in the form of Joao Pedro.

Barcelona are yet to make any moves in the pursuit of the Chelsea star, but sporting director Deco recently travelled to London to see the Brazilian international in action.

Deco met with Pedro’s agents on Thursday

According to Diario AS, Deco held a meeting in London on Thursday with representatives of the agency handling Joao Pedro’s affairs, with his potential signing for Barcelona firmly on the agenda.

Joao Pedro has been a top performer at Chelsea this season. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Two clear messages emerged from the discussions. The 24-year-old Brazilian is keen to become a Barcelona player next season.

However, the path to making that happen is described as almost impossible at this stage. Chelsea are unwilling to sell a player they signed from Brighton for €65 million just a year ago, with his current market value now sitting at €75 million.

The situation at Chelsea could also shift depending on Xabi Alonso’s plans. If the incoming Chelsea manager views Pedro as essential to his project, the deal becomes even harder to pursue.

If, on the other hand, Alonso is unwilling to keep an unhappy player, a door could open for Barcelona.

Why Pedro fits the profile

Deco is keen on the services of Joao Pedro. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

With Lewandowski’s departure now confirmed and uncertainty surrounding Ferran Torres’ contract renewal, Barcelona need to act decisively in attack.

Pedro fits the profile Deco and Flick have in mind. He is a striker without an inflated ego, comfortable with both feet, strong in the air, versatile across the front line and capable of maintaining a high defensive intensity.

His numbers this season back that up, with 20 goals and nine assists across all competitions. However, it remains to be seen whether or not a move for Pedro is financially feasible for the Blaugrana.