Chelsea are excited about Xabi Alonso working with one player in particular

While Barcelona have initiated contact with Joao Pedro’s representatives, Chelsea have made their stance clear and his plans under Xabi Alonso have been shared.

Barcelona’s search for Robert Lewandowski’s long-term successor has led them to launch a pursuit of Joao Pedro, with sporting director Deco holding direct talks with his representatives.

Despite a complicated domestic campaign for Chelsea, the forward stood out as the Blues’ top performer, racking up 20 goals across all competitions.

However, Chelsea’s hierarchy remains determined to block the transfer, viewing Pedro as one of the key components for the future. And it seems as if incoming manager Xabi Alonso wants to build his team around the striker rather than navigating another disruptive squad overhaul.

Chelsea reckon Xabi Alonso can transform Joao Pedro

Fabrizio Romano has issued an update on Joao Pedro’s future, and it hasn’t changed since Xabi Alonso’s arrival. If anything, it’s only got stronger.

“So at the moment my understanding is that yes, Barcelona, like Joao Pedro and had some conversations with those close to Joao Pedro, it’s true, but at the moment Chelsea’s position is very clear.

“They want Joao Pedro to be an important part of the squad, not just for the present as he is, but also for the future and they want Joao Pedro to be a crucial part of the squad also under Xabi Alonso.

“Chelsea believes that Joao Pedro can be fantastic under Xabi Alonso, as he was already this season in a complicated season, they can imagine that Joao can do even better with Xabi Alonso and so that’s Chelsea’s position, they absolutely want Joao Pedro to stay.”

Xabi Alonso needs to develop Cole Palmer more than anyone

While Cole Palmer remains Chelsea’s main man, developing him further is Xabi Alonso’s absolute priority following a challenging period.

Palmer’s confidence took a visible hit after being repeatedly played out of position as an isolated wide outlet, which caused a noticeable drop-off in his regular output.

Alonso’s structured, possession-heavy style is exactly what he needs to rebuild that rhythm. By restoring Palmer to his natural central role, Alonso can stop him from overcompensating, turning him back into the heartbeat of Chelsea’s attack.

from Chelsea FC Latest News & Club Updates | The Chelsea Chronicle https://ift.tt/YclAG6i