LALIGA giants eye Chelsea's on-song star to solve major squad problem

Barcelona have reportedly registered interest in signing Chelsea forward João Pedro ahead of the upcoming summer window to solve their pressing need for a marquee striker. 

The Catalan Giants are scouring the market for attacking reinforcements as veteran Robert Lewandowski’s current contract nears its June 30 expiration date, while 26-year-old forward Ferran Torres has simultaneously been placed on the transfer list to ease financial constraints. 

According to Caught Offside, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has initiated exploratory contacts for the 24-year-old Brazil international.

However, securing his signature will require a massive financial package, as he only recently joined Chelsea from Brighton last summer for a base fee of €63.7 million and remains tied to a lengthy Stamford Bridge contract that runs until 2033. 

His current estimated transfer value sits around €75 million, according to Transfermarkt, but a move is very plausible provided Barcelona matches the asking price, especially since Chelsea's ownership group, BlueCo, has consistently demonstrated they are not averse to lucrative player sales to balance their books.

Barcelona’s interest is heavily driven by the striker’s noteworthy performances since arriving at Stamford Bridge in the summer. 

He has thrived at Chelsea and has arguably been one of the Premier League's most in-form players, registering an outstanding 14 goals and five assists in 31 league appearances. 

Following his stellar domestic season, the former Watford man is fully expected to travel to North America and play a crucial attacking role for the Brazil national team as they compete for glory at the upcoming FIFA World Cup.