Barcelona targeting Chelsea striker Joao Pedro as Lewandowski exit looms in 2026

Barcelona plan to sign Chelsea striker Joao Pedro before Robert Lewandowski leaves in 2026.

Barca's Lewandowski replacement hunt Barcelona have identified Chelsea and Brazil striker Joao Pedro as their top target to replace Poland striker Robert Lewandowski, who is expected to depart at the end of the season. The 24-year-old forward has emerged as the club's preferred candidate to fill the void left by the 37-year-old Lewandowski. Barcelona are preparing for Lewandowski's exit and have begun exploring options to secure a long-term solution up front. ## Villa's young talent pursuit continues Aston Villa are keeping a close watch on Paris St-Germain and Senegal forward Ibrahim Mbaye, with the Premier League side looking to bring in younger players this summer. The 18-year-old attacker is among their priorities as they aim to refresh the squad. Villa's recruitment strategy includes targeting emerging talent to build for the future. Their interest in high-potential youngsters remains a key focus. ## Romero emerges as Bastoni fallback for Barca If Barcelona's attempt to sign Inter Milan and Italy defender Alessandro Bastoni falls through, they may pivot to Tottenham and Argentina center-back Cristian Romero instead. The 28-year-old defender is now a potential alternative in their defensive reshuffle. Barcelona's defensive plans are fluid, and Romero's profile fits their requirements. The club is exploring multiple routes to strengthen their backline. ## Villa weighs O'Reilly sale options Aston Villa are considering selling 22-year-old English winger Tommi O'Reilly, currently on loan at League Two side Crewe Alexandra. The move comes as interest grows from Oxford United, Portsmouth, and Huddersfield Town. Villa's decision reflects their evolving squad strategy and potential need to balance the books. They are assessing the best path forward for the young attacker. ## Premier League promotion battle for Openda Coventry City, newly promoted to the Premier League, are locked in competition with Leeds United to sign 26-year-old Belgium and RB Leipzig striker Lois Openda. Openda is currently on loan at Serie A club Juventus. Both clubs are vying to secure his services ahead of the upcoming transfer window. The Belgian forward's availability has triggered a fierce battle between the two sides. ## Newcastle's Gordon linked with Bayern move Newcastle and England winger Anthony Gordon's club has been in discussions with Bayern Munich for several months. Manager Vincent Kompany has already given the green light for a potential transfer involving the 25-year-old player. The ongoing talks highlight Newcastle's openness to parting ways with Gordon if the right offer materializes. The winger's future remains a topic of active negotiation. ## Hackney transfer race intensifies with Brighton entry Brighton have joined Nottingham Forest in the chase to sign 23-year-old midfielder Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough. The former England Under-21 international is drawing multiple suitors as his Premier League future takes shape. The transfer battle now includes three interested clubs vying for his signature. Hackney's potential move is gaining momentum heading into the summer window. ## Rangers teen Rice sought by multiple clubs Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, and Crystal Palace are all competing to sign 19-year-old Scottish midfielder Bailey Rice from Rangers. The young talent is attracting significant attention from Premier League outfits. Clubs are eager to secure his services as he continues to develop. Rice's potential transfer remains a hot topic in the current window. ## Villa eye Martinez replacement in Trafford Aston Villa are increasing their pursuit of Manchester City and England goalkeeper James Trafford to potentially replace Argentina's 33-year-old Emiliano Martinez. The 23-year-old shot-stopper is being considered as a long-term solution in goal. Villa's goalkeeping situation is under review as they look to future-proof the position. Trafford's availability has prompted Villa to step up their interest. ## Flick secures Barcelona contract extension talks German manager Hansi Flick is set to finalize a two-year contract extension at Barcelona next week. The 61-year-old's new deal will keep him at the club through the coming seasons. Barcelona are moving forward with plans to retain Flick's services. The agreement is expected to be completed in the coming days.