Barcelona make €70m-rated Chelsea forward as the new No. 1 target; contact player’s camp | OneFootball

As has been well-established, FC Barcelona intend to sign a top-quality striker in the summer transfer window, with Robert Lewandowski expected to be on his way out.

However, the Blaugrana have slowly come to realise the complications involved in the pursuit of the 26-year-old striker, who is also being pursued by Paris Saint-Germain.

Joao Pedro now tops the list

As such, Mundo Deportivo now reports that Chelsea star Joao Pedro has now become the No. 1 target on Deco’s shortlist as Barcelona look to strengthen the striker position ahead of next season.

Alvarez had always been Barça’s preferred option to lead the attack next season. Both the sporting department and coaching staff viewed him as the ideal successor to Lewandowski.

However, the situation has become increasingly complicated. PSG are prepared to offer more than €100 million for the Atletico Madrid striker, surpassing what Barcelona are realistically able to spend.

The new priority for Barcelona. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

At the same time, Los Rojiblancos would rather avoid strengthening a direct La Liga rival and would prefer to sell the striker abroad instead.

Pedro the more realistic option

Because of that, Joao Pedro has quickly emerged as the leading alternative. Deco is said to be fully convinced by the Brazilian attacker’s profile and believes he fits perfectly into the type of striker Barcelona need moving forward.

Barcelona’s current efforts are now focused on trying to secure Joao Pedro’s signature. The Brazilian striker would cost around €70 million, making him considerably cheaper than Alvarez.

Barça have already made contact with the player’s representatives and believe the operation is feasible.

Joao Pedro is interested in the project and could push for a move himself, especially if Chelsea fail to qualify for European competition next season. With only two Premier League matches remaining, their situation remains difficult.