Joao Pedro happy to stay at Chelsea despite Barcelona interest | OneFootball

Chelsea striker Joao Pedro is happy at the club and willing to continue his stay at Stamford Bridge beyond this summer, according to Nizaar Kinsella.

‘When he says it is a dream to play for Chelsea, he means it.’ He is not for sale at any price, even though he is not satisfied with the club’s current league position.

Pedro has been sensational for Chelsea since his £60 million summer switch, bagging 20 goals and nine assists in 48 appearances.

He has been one of the bright spots of a very sour season for the West Londoners, in which they sit outside of all the European spots on the Premier League table.

His performances have reportedly caught the attention of Barcelona.

Their sporting director and former Chelsea playmaker, Deco, is pulling strings to understand Pedro’s situation because of Robert Lewandowski’s impending departure this summer.

However, it appears the Blues will keep their man at least for one more season, as the European giants do not believe he is a viable target.

Interestingly, Chelsea should be viewing Barcelona’s succession plan as an opportunity.

If Lewandowski is at the end of his chapter in Spain, the FIFA Club World Cup champions should be first in line to pounce.

Pedro has been outstanding, but the Blues still lack an elite, proven striker who can guarantee goals in decisive moments.

Liam Delap and Marc Guiu have failed to move the needle so far, while incoming striker Emanuel Emegha remains more projection than certainty at the highest level.

Lewandowski would instantly raise standards across the dressing room.

His movement, finishing and mentality are still among Europe’s best, even at his age.

More importantly, he would be the perfect mentor and rotational partner behind Pedro, offering leadership to a painfully inexperienced attacking unit.

Chelsea’s obsession with youth has left them short of authority and ruthlessness, and Lewandowski could solve both problems immediately.