Barcelona unexpectedly targets Chelsea star to replace Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski is likely to leave Camp Nou this summer, and Barcelona is reportedly aiming for a star from Chelsea's roster to replace the Polish striker.

Barcelona is actively searching for a new striker amid increasing likelihood that one of their current "number 9s" will depart in the summer. Both Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres have been linked with potential exits, but at present, the more plausible scenario is Lewandowski leaving the Catalan club when his contract expires in June.

Barcelona's primary target remains Julian Alvarez, but negotiations with Atletico Madrid are predicted to be extremely difficult. Therefore, the club's leadership is not only considering budget options but also evaluating "mid-range" choices – where the name Joao Pedro has emerged.

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Barcelona is seriously interested in Pedro, who impressed greatly in his first season wearing Chelsea's shirt. His record of 18 goals and 6 assists across all competitions clearly demonstrates the 24-year-old forward's capability, and if he joins Spotify Camp Nou, he will undoubtedly have more opportunities to improve these numbers.

Although Chelsea may not be ready to let Pedro leave just 12 months after recruiting him from Brighton & Hove Albion, a deal below €100 million – fitting Barcelona's budget for the striker position – is still considered feasible. If successful, this could be a shrewd move, as Pedro is continuously improving and still has much room for development at age 24.

From a technical perspective, Pedro is assessed as suitable for Barcelona's style of play, even though he is not a typical box-striker, which might require sporting director Deco and his associates to weigh carefully. Nevertheless, his ability to link up with young talents like Fermin Lopez, Lamine Yamal, or Raphinha promises to offer the Catalan club many attractive attacking options.

At present, Barcelona's interest in Joao Pedro is only in its initial stages, and it remains to be seen whether this deal will become more serious as the summer transfer window approaches.