Chelsea hand Joao Pedro long-term deal in blow to Barcelona’s striker plans

Barcelona have suffered a setback in their search for a new centre-forward after Joao Pedro signed a contract extension with Chelsea until 2034.

The Brazil international had been reported as one of the options under consideration by Barcelona sporting director Deco, particularly if the Spanish club are unable to complete a deal for Atletico de Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.

Chelsea confirmed the new agreement on Saturday, underlining their determination to keep Joao Pedro at Stamford Bridge for the long term. The 24-year-old joined the London club from Brighton & Hove Albion in July 2025 and made an immediate impact during his first appearance in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Joao Pedro scored in both the semi-final and final of the competition to help Chelsea lift the trophy. He scored twice against former club Fluminense to send Chelsea through to the final before finding the net against Paris Saint-Germain in the final.

His form continued throughout his first full season with Chelsea. Joao Pedro scored 20 goals in all competitions during the 2025-26 campaign and was voted the club’s player of the season by supporters.

“I am very happy to sign a new contract with Chelsea. I have always dreamed of playing for a big club, and it means a lot to me to commit to this club for the long term. Chelsea have a long history of winning, and they have great ambitions for the future,” said Joao Pedro.

He added: “I have a very good relationship with everyone here at the club, and I have felt at home here in London from the moment I joined.”

Joao Pedro also spoke about Chelsea’s ambitions for the new season, saying: “Everyone is very excited about this season. We know we are capable of achieving a lot of things, we have a great team, and we have a coach who wants to win and has won before. I am fully committed, and everyone is ready. Hopefully, we can achieve our goals.”

The forward scored Chelsea’s first goal of the 2025-26 season in an away match against West Ham United. He later scored the only goal in an away victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

He also made his mark in Europe, scoring twice as Chelsea defeated Napoli in the Champions League.

Joao Pedro’s 20-goal campaign earned him the club’s player of the season award by a clear margin after receiving strong support in the fans’ vote. His new long-term contract now removes one potential target from Barcelona’s plans as they assess alternatives for their attack and continue to consider the possibility that a move for Alvarez may not be completed.