Chelsea reject Barcelona interest as Joao Pedro set for improved contract

Chelsea have told Barcelona that Joao Pedro is not for sale as they prepare to reward the Brazil forward with improved contract terms and a higher salary after his impressive first season at the club.

The move is aimed at recognising Joao Pedro’s contribution while reinforcing his importance to Chelsea’s long-term plans. His existing contract runs until 2033, but The Athletic reports that the London club is seeking to extend the agreement further as part of a new package for the 24-year-old.

Chelsea’s decision also represents an attempt to discourage interest from clubs considering a move for the forward. Barcelona have identified Joao Pedro as a possible future addition to their attack as they look for a potential successor to Robert Lewandowski.

However, Chelsea have maintained that Joao Pedro is not available and have rejected the prospect of entering negotiations over his departure. The club’s position is that he remains a central part of the project they are building for the years ahead.

Joao Pedro joined Chelsea from Brighton in the summer of 2025 in a deal worth £60m. He quickly established himself as one of the team’s leading players, making a significant impact during his first campaign at Stamford Bridge.

The forward played 50 matches last season, scoring 20 goals and providing nine assists. Those figures confirmed his status as one of Chelsea’s most important attacking players and strengthened the club’s desire to secure his future.

Joao Pedro said the expectations surrounding his arrival had been considerable, but that he had sought to remain positive and support his team-mates.

“كانت التوقعات كبيرة منذ انضمامي، لذلك احاول دايما الحفاظ على عقلية ايجابية لمساعدة زملايي، واعتقد انه كان واحدا من افضل المواسم في مسيرتي”.

Translated, he said: “The expectations were high from the moment I joined, so I always try to maintain a positive mentality to help my team-mates, and I think it was one of the best seasons of my career.”

Chelsea’s plan reflects a wider policy of protecting their young stars with long-term contracts. The club regard Joao Pedro as one of the foundations of their future, and the improved terms are intended both to reward his performances and to underline his place in the team’s development.

Although his current agreement already extends until 2033, Chelsea believe the proposed changes would provide further recognition for the player’s progress since his move from Brighton. They also underline the club’s determination to keep him despite Barcelona’s interest and the possibility that his profile could attract further attention in the future.

The report makes clear that Chelsea’s stance is firm: Joao Pedro is considered part of the club’s long-term plans, rather than a player who could be made available for transfer.