Juventus are reportedly eyeing a shock January swoop to sign Chelsea forward Pedro in an attempt to bolster their front line.
According to a report by The Sun, Pedro could be on his way to Juventus in January as the Italian champions are believed to be eyeing a deal. The Italians are keen on boosting their front line in order to maintain their dominion over Serie A and have identified the former Barcelona star as a possible addition to the squad.
Pedro made his way through the ranks at Barcelona and featured in their 2008-09 pre-season games wherein he showed ample promise. He was soon promoted to the first-team and he responded with a breakthrough year, during which he became the first player to score in six different club competitions during a single season.
Things were looking up for Pedro at Barcelona but after the purchase of Alexis Sanchez and the emergence of youth players like Isaac Cuenca and Cristian Tello, the player saw limited game time which was further compounded by him picking up some injuries.
Finally, in 2015, Pedro joined Premier League champions Chelsea on a four-year contract for £19 million despite interest from Manchester United. Since then, he went on to become a key member of Antonio Conte’s squad, which is why it is unlikely for the manager to let him leave the club and during the middle of the season in January.
However, the Italian club are believed to be searching for a new No.10 to play behind Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain. Miralem Pjanic has failed to settle in that role, forcing manager Massimo Allegri to scan the market for a pacy, technically-gifted footballer.
Although they were also targeting Bayern Munich ace Thomas Muller, Juve are keeping their options open with Pedro. The former Barcelona forward can also fit Allegri’s midfield diamond well, thus providing a solid boost to their performances on the whole.
Having said that, the versatile attacker has managed to settle down in London and is quite happy with his role at Chelsea and has no intentions of moving anytime soon. The Blues may have signed Alvaro Morata but Pedro remains more crucial than ever as they launch an attempt at defending the Premier League trophy.
Pedro put up a clinical display last season, chipping in with 21 goals and Conte needs him this season more than ever. Thus, there is no reason for Pedro move in January but it remains to be seen if Juventus can lure him with a hefty financial offer.
