Sources: Barcelona could accelerate bid to sign Chelsea star after 'big surprise'

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(Credit: Imago) Sat 23 May 2026 7:30, UK Joao Pedro could be subject to offers from Barcelona when the summer transfer opens as they admire the Chelsea star, sources have told Football Insider.The 24-year-old was named Chelsea’s player of the year recently after what has been a strong first season at Stamford Bridge, but could already be lured away.Having missed out on selection for Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad ahead of the World Cup, Barcelona could offer a change of scenery to work his way back in.As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, the Spanish giants are hopeful they can agree a deal to sign Pedro this summer.However, there are doubts about the Blues’ willingness to sell as Chelsea plan for a big transfer window and would likely stand in the way of a move to Barcelona. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Could Barcelona tempt Joao Pedro away from Chelsea?Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 7 May that Pedro could be tempted to leave Chelsea for Barcelona after a turbulent season.The Spanish outfit have been tipped to capitalise on dressing room issues at Stamford Bridge which were a major talking point ahead of Liam Rosenior’s dismissal.Joao Pedro2025-26 StatsAppearances49Starts41Minutes Played3604Goals20Assists9Joao Pedro’s stats for Chelsea in the 2025-26 season.

(via Transfermarkt)The arrival of Xabi Alonso is being eyed as a clean slate for the players, but with Barcelona closely monitoring Pedro, they could push to get a deal done.Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “I’m not convinced that [being left out of the Brazil squad] will have a major impact on his future.“Obviously it was a big surprise that he didn’t make the Brazil squad, because he’s had a great campaign for Chelsea and been named as their player of the season.“He’s got 20 goals and nine assists in all competitions since his arrival from Brighton and he’s been one of Chelsea’s shining lights in what has been a pretty poor season.“Barcelona are looking at him as they are looking for a replacement for Robert Lewandowski and they could look to take advantage on the situation.“But I think he’d probably be a bit too expensive.”What is Xabi Alonso planning for his Chelsea squad?Alonso’s arrival at Chelsea is set to usher in significant changes to the culture of their squad after a season packed with controversy and dressing room incidents.The newly-appointed manager is set to oversee major changes in the summer window, with players to be let go in order to raise funds and clear space for additions.Credit: ImagoBrown told Football Insider on 18 May that Alonso could oversee a clear-out at Chelsea, with as many as six players pushed out of Stamford Bridge.A number of influential players in the Blues squad have already been identified as potential concerns and the boss will weigh up their futures before he takes over.The new manager plans to be ruthless in his attempts to root out the causes of the recent issues at Stamford Bridge and could allow big names to leave. 🦁 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Chelsea Insider Access Get the full story from Stamford Bridge and Cobham with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from West London.