Joao Pedro's career could have taken a dramatic turn last summer as the 24-year-old Brazilian striker was open to a move to Barcelona. The Catalan giants made a serious attempt to secure his signature, but insider details from Pablo Montano of Diario AS reveal how Chelsea blocked the deal.
In mid-May, Barcelona's sporting director Deco flew to London for secret talks with Joao Pedro's agents, laying the groundwork for a potential blockbuster transfer. The player was eager to don the colours of the Catalan club, contingent on both clubs reaching an agreement and Barcelona meeting the required compensation.
Stiff price and Barcelona's financial constraints
However, the main sticking point was Chelsea's hefty asking price. Having previously invested a significant €70 million in acquiring the forward, the Blues were not about to let their prized asset go at a bargain. The club reportedly set a strict ultimatum for the Spaniards: they wanted over €120 million for the Brazilian.
This kind of financial demand posed a monumental challenge for a Barcelona team grappling with chronic financial issues. As weeks passed, interest from Barcelona waned, further pressured by their fiscal constraints, prompting Chelsea to act decisively.
Declining to prolong the uncertainty, the Stamford Bridge hierarchy firmly committed to their valuable forward. Joao Pedro was positioned as a central figure in Xabi Alonso's new project, with a lucrative contract extension until 2032, including an option for an additional two years and a substantial wage increase.
This firm move effectively slammed the door shut on Barcelona, leaving Deco empty-handed and ensuring Joao Pedro's future was securely cemented at Chelsea.
Overcoming drama, lifting a curse, and comparisons with Benzema
The decision to retain the Brazilian has already paid off for Chelsea. Joao Pedro bounced back brilliantly from the psychological blow of missing out on Brazil's World Cup squad, making a storming start to the season. In his first three matches, he scored two goals and provided four assists, followed by a goal and an assist against Hull City.
His dazzling performances earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award for August, and he's also managed to break the infamous 'number nine' curse that has plagued Chelsea for years, a burden that many renowned strikers have struggled to bear.
Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso has been effusive in his praise for his star, likening Joao Pedro’s playing style to that of Karim Benzema and placing him in the same conversation as Erling Haaland. The resolute refusal by Chelsea to compromise with Barcelona on the deal has proved to be an astute strategic move. Currently, Joao Pedro stands as an undisputed pillar of the attack at Stamford Bridge, with the snub of his transfer to Spain being one of the club's best decisions in recent times.
