Chelsea have reinforced their determination to retain key players by rejecting interest in forward Joao Pedro, despite ongoing speculation surrounding several first-team stars, according to The Chelsea Chronicle.
The report, published on July 20, 2026, states that Chelsea have already sanctioned the departures of Marc Cucurella and Andrey Santos this transfer window, while Enzo Fernandez has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.
However, Chelsea reportedly rejected an approach from Barcelona for Joao Pedro, with TEAMtalk reporting that the club made it clear the forward is not for sale. Pedro enjoyed an outstanding debut season, scoring 20 goals in all competitions and winning Chelsea’s Player of the Season award.
The club reportedly viewed Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid as a planned transfer rather than a forced sale, believing Jorrel Hato can fill the vacancy. Santos was also not considered a guaranteed starter after a limited role last season.
The report added that Chelsea are also expected to retain Cole Palmer and Moises Caicedo, while Fernandez could remain at the club as interest from potential suitors, including Real Madrid, has yet to develop into a concrete move.
