Just in – Deco travels to London to hold talks with Barcelona No. 1 target’s agents | OneFootball

As reported earlier this week, Chelsea striker Joao Pedro has now emerged as the No. 1 target for FC Barcelona to reinforce the No. 9 position.

With major complications expected in the pursuit of Julian Alvarez, the Blaugrana have decided to shift their focus to the Brazilian centre-forward.

Deco flies to London

Now, according to SPORT, Barcelona sporting director Deco has travelled to London to meet Joao Pedro’s representatives over the coming days.

During his stay in the English capital, Deco could also attend Saturday’s FA Cup final at Wembley between Chelsea and Manchester City, where the 24-year-old forward is expected to be one of the main attacking attractions.

Deco flying to London. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The trip has been handled with complete secrecy inside the club. Barça are eager to move early and carefully in the market, fully aware that their financial situation requires patience, planning and flexibility in every negotiation.

There is even a possibility that Deco could hold face-to-face talks with João Pedro himself during the visit.

Barcelona convinced by Joao Pedro

Within the sporting department, there is a strong belief that Joao Pedro perfectly fits the footballing identity Hansi Flick wants to build.

Barcelona view him as a modern striker with mobility, technical quality, creativity in link-up play and a natural eye for goal.

Club officials are also particularly attracted by his age and development potential, making him the leading candidate to become Barcelona’s next No. 9.

Barcelona’s new No. 1 target. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Despite Joao Pedro now leading the shortlist, Deco still greatly admires Julian Alvarez. However, the Atletico Madrid forward has become increasingly difficult to sign in recent weeks.

Ironically, Joao Pedro would also require a major investment, with the total cost expected to be similar to what signing Alvarez would have involved.

Moreover, Barcelona are fully aware that before making a move of this magnitude, the club must first create salary space, complete player departures, and fully comply with La Liga’s 1:1 financial rule.