Barcelona sporting director Deco is expected at the FA Cup final today to run the rule over Chelsea forward Joao Pedro.
The 48-year-old Barcelona executive and former Chelsea midfielder has been in London this week for a series of meetings ahead of formulating transfer plans for the summer.
With Robert Lewandowski coming to the end of his career, Barca want a striker that can fit into their system and have identified Joao Pedro as a prime candidate.
Hours before the final at Wembley, Barcelona confirmed Lewandowski will be leaving the club in the summer with a social media announcement titled: ‘Came as a star. Leaves as legend.’
Chelsea, for their part, insist they have no desire to sell a player that cost them £55million from Brighton a year ago.
The Brazilian has been one of their few successes this season and has scored 20 goals in his first campaign for the club.
Barcelona chief Deco is expected at the FA Cup final to run the rule over Chelsea’s Joao Pedro
Barca have identified Joao Pedro as a prime candidate to replace striker Robert Lewandowski
They are targeting new forwards in the transfer window but see Joao Pedro as being part of their plans.
Talks have taken place with favourite Xabi Alonso over the Spaniard becoming Chelsea’s new manager and they hope to appoint their preferred candidate soon, though they have also spoken to Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner and Marco Silva.
Barcelona’s pursuit of Joao Pedro does not alter their desire to sign Marcus Rashford too. However, with financial constraints, they still want to strike a cheap deal with Manchester United for the England international.
Lewandowski, 37, joined Barcelona from Bayern Munich in 2022 and will now seek a new chapter at the latter stages of his glittering career.
Penning an emotional message on social media platform X, the Poland legend striker said: ‘After four years full of challenges and hard work, it’s time to move on.
‘I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete. 4 seasons, 3 championships.
‘I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days. Catalonia is my place on earth. Thank you to everyone I met along the way during these beautiful four years.
‘A special thank you to President Laporta for giving me the chance to live the most incredible chapter of my career. Barca is back where it belongs.’
