New Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso responds to Joao Pedro to Barcelona transfer talk

Real Madrid's Spanish coach Xabi Alonso reacts during the Spanish Super Cup final football match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at the King Abdullah Stadium in Jeddah on January 11, 2026. Real Madrid appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as new coach on January 12, 2026 after coach Xabi Alonso has left the club by mutual consent, a day after the team lost the Spanish Super Cup final against rivals Barcelona, AFP reports. (Photo by Fadel SENNA / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images New Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso has been quizzed directly on talk that Barcelona are chasing Joao Pedro ahead of the summer transfer window.

Pedro has emerged as a potential alternative to Julian Alvarez as Barcelona search for a new No. 9 in time for the 2026-27 season. Asked by El Chiringuito about the speculation, Alonso said only: “Well..

That’s football, and we’ll build a good team. ” Barcelona sporting director Deco reportedly held talks with Pedro’s agents before Saturday’s FA Cup final which Chelsea lost to Manchester City. There was then more misery for Pedro in midweek when he was surprisingly left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for World Cup 2026.

His omission has continued to fuel speculation about a move, with some outlets reporting that he would like to join Barcelona. However, it’s not known if Chelsea would sanction a sale or if Barca can afford the Brazilian.