Chelsea have suffered a setback in the race to sign Barcelona star Pedro, reports the Daily Star.
The 27-year-old is going to travel to the USA on the Catalan side’s pre-season tour, and this could slow down any deal for the player. Manager Luis Enrique is keen to keep the player, despite having Luis Suarez, Neymar, and Lionel Messi in the squad in the Spain international’s position.
“I do not want any player to leave my staff, none,” Enrique emphasised.
“I have said many times how important Pedro is for us but there is a clause, and if he wants to leave, I will respect his decision.”
The Blaugranas also brought in Arda Turan from Atletico Madrid recently, although the Turkey international won’t be able to play until January because of the transfer ban currently in place at the Nou Camp. Regardless, his arrival may mean that Pedro slips down the pecking order at the club.
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With presidential elections currently going ahead at Barca, the winner could have a major say on whether the winger leaves the Camp Nou. Candidate Joan Laporta has already criticised the current hierarchy for selling Gerard Deulofeu this summer [Liverpool Echo], and were he to win the election then he may take a similar dim view of letting Pedro leave.
Chelsea need to strengthen their wings after relying heavily on Eden Hazard for creativity last season. Juan Cuadrado has failed to impress in 13 appearances since joining in January, not managing a single goal or assist. Willian has done better, but could do with more competition in the role if the side is going to challenge for the Champions League next time round.
Arsenal and Liverpool have both been linked to the forward, according to the Telegraph.
Pedro could be the man to do it, particularly if he can recreate this kind of stonking effort…