'Well, this is football': Chelsea new manager tight-lipped about Barcelona target's future | Barca Universal

Xabi Alonso is appointed as Chelsea’s new manager after leaving Real Madrid in January. Chelsea have moved on from Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior and aim to return to top form. Barcelona will monitor developments closely because they are interested in Chelsea striker Joao Pedro. Alonso was asked about the possibility of Chelsea players leaving in the summer and responded that Chelsea will build a good team without ruling out departures. Barcelona are seeking a new centre-forward after Robert Lewandowski’s exit. Julian Alvarez was previously the priority, but Joao Pedro has become the No. 1 target after scoring 20 goals and providing nine assists in 49 games. A move could cost around €100 million, leaving Barcelona to weigh whether to proceed or pursue cheaper options.

"Following his surprise exit from Real Madrid in January, Xabi Alonso has been named the new manager of Chelsea heading into the new season. After a forgettable campaign, the Blues, who parted ways with Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, are pinning their hopes on Alonso to take them back to the top."

"Earlier today, Alonso had a brief chat with a journalist from El Chiringuito TV, during which he was asked about the possibility of players leaving Chelsea in the summer. The name of Pedro and his links to Barcelona were specifically mentioned by the interviewer. In response, the new Chelsea head coach was coy as he limited himself to saying: "Well, this is football, and we will build a good team," without closing the door on the Brazilian's possible departure."

"With Robert Lewandowski's departure already confirmed, Barcelona are firmly in the market for a new centre-forward heading into the summer. While they had identified Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez as their priority target, things have changed in recent days. Instead, Joao Pedro is now the No. 1 target for the reigning La Liga champions after the Brazilian enjoyed a solid debut season with the Blues, scoring 20 and assisting nine goals in 49 games."

"The Chelsea forward, for his part, is understood to be open to a move to Barcelona, but any transfer could cost around €100 million. So, it remains to be seen if the Blaugrana press ahead with their interest in the Brazilian or look for cheaper alternatives."

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