Barcelona sporting director in London to make another attempt to sign Premier League star | Barca Universal

Julian Alvarez has become a major topic in Spanish football media after reports of his desire to leave Atletico Madrid this summer. Alvarez is widely viewed as unhappy at Atletico, including under Diego Simeone, who is expected to remain next season. Barcelona are not relying solely on Alvarez and are also targeting Joao Pedro as a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. Barcelona sporting director Deco is in London with Bojan and scout Joao Amaral to make another attempt to sign Pedro. Chelsea are not keen on offloading Pedro so soon after signing him last year, believing he is vital to their attack. Even a world-record bid may not change their stance, making Barcelona’s task difficult.

"Julian Alvarez has been the hottest topic in Spanish footballing media right now, following bombshell reports of his desire to leave Atletico Madrid this summer. It is widely believed Alvarez is not happy at Atletico Madrid, much less so with Diego Simeone, who will continue at the helm of Atleti next season."

"According to Gerard Romero, Barcelona's sporting director Deco is currently in London alongside Bojan and scout Joao Amaral. The purpose of their visit is to make another attempt to sign Pedro, who has emerged as the club's clear attacking target as they look to find a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. Pedro is seen as an alternative to Alvarez, even though his pursuit will not hamper Barcelona's attempts to sign the Argentine international."

"Deco and co will have their task cut out in London, though, as Chelsea are not too keen on offloading Joao Pedro this summer. The Premier League giants had signed the Brazilian last year and have no desire to let him go this early, even if they receive a 'world record' bid for the player, who has racked up 29 goal involvements in his maiden season at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea believe Joao Pedro is a critical component of their attacking unit and will continue to remain so, regardless of Barcelona's attempts."

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