Julian Alvarez is one player Chelsea have been linked with in recent months. The Argentine World Cup winner is believed to be open to leaving Atletico Madrid. Obviously, the Blues might have a tough time convincing him, as they are likely not going to have Champions League football next season. Let’s hope that is not a dealbreaker for the former Manchester City man.
Someone like Alvarez could be an excellent signing for Chelsea. He has scored 49 goals in 105 games for Atletico Madrid despite his poor league campaign this time around. In Europe, he has been excellent. Also, he has Premier League experience from his time at Manchester City and is also proven at the international level. This is the kind of addition the Blues need to make.
Of course, Atletico Madrid would look for a big transfer fee. It has been reported that they want around €120 million to part with Alvarez.
On the other hand, Alvarez is believed to prefer a move to Barcelona. But that kind of transfer fee might be out of Barca’s budget. Incidentally, if they are unable to sign the Atletico Madrid striker, they have a Chelsea forward as a backup option.
Barcelona eyeing Chelsea forward as Julian Alvarez alternative
Perhaps the only great signing that Chelsea made last summer was the one of Joao Pedro. The Brazilian forward might have had his ups and downs, but he has at least made an impact and been the top scorer this season. He was also instrumental in the Club World Cup win. It is worth mentioning that Jorrel Hato has been solid over the past few months as well, one of the only bright spots of the Liam Rosenior era.
Coming back to Pedro, it looks like his form has caught the attention of Barcelona. And he has emerged as an alternative to Alvarez.
According to CadenaSER, presenter Sique Rodriguez said on one of their programmes:
“João Pedro is a clear alternative to Julián Alvarez. He is a soccer player who is very liked at Barça. He is not the only one.”
Pedro exit feels unlikely after just one season
Pedro is one of the few players who has had a solid 25/26 campaign for Chelsea. He earned a lot of plaudits for his recent display against Leeds United in the semi-final as well. So, if the Blues are to finish the campaign strong, they need him.
It is hard to imagine that Chelsea will be open to Pedro’s exit after just one season. Let’s not forget, he has a long-term contract with the club.
Obviously, a move to Barcelona would be attractive to any player. That being said, expect Pedro to be playing in the Royal Blue jersey come next season.
At the same time, Chelsea’s forward position could have an effect on the situation as well. Nicolas Jackson is set to return. Emmanuel Emegha will arrive from Strasbourg. And what if the Blues manage to sign Alvarez as well? Would Pedro still be a starter at that point? If not, would he want to stay? So, it is a fluid situation as it stands. Let’s see how it all plays out.
