Barcelona targets Joao Pedro, drops Julián Álvarez

Barcelona has opened negotiations for Brazilian striker Joao Pedro and signaled that Argentine forward Julián Álvarez will not be part of its transfer plans. Deco travelled to London to start talks with Joao Pedro’s representatives. The club cites Joao Pedro’s elevated transfer fee as the main hurdle. Barcelona continues its search for a forward for the upcoming season. Robert Lewandowski’s exit creates a vacancy. Barcelona chose not to exercise the purchase option for Marcus Rashford. Uncertainty surrounding Raphinha’s future adds to the pressure. Julián Álvarez remains at Barcelona without a promised move abroad. Atlético Madrid expressed frustration over the stalled transfer. If negotiations succeed, Joao Pedro could join Barcelona ahead of the next campaign. The club’s next steps depend on agreeing a fee acceptable to both parties.