According to a recent report by Italian publication Calcio Mercato, European superclub Juventus are said to be eyeing up a move for out of favour Chelsea winger Pedro, as Maurizio Sarri looks to add more attacking reinforcements to his side. It has been suggested that the Italian club see Pedro as a low-cost option, considering that he is more than capable of playing on either side of midfield.
The Spanish World Cup winner’s contract at Chelsea is set to expire at the end of the current season, meaning that the Turin club will be able to make their move. Maurizio Sarri’s time at Chelsea saw the Italian tactician form a special relationship with the former Barcelona winger. The manager is still trying out multiple variations to figure out how to get the best output from his Juventus side, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he feels that Pedro is a key piece to the puzzle, at least in the short term.
Why Is Maurizio Sarri Looking To Sign Pedro?
The Spaniard played under the Italian at Chelsea last season, and he certainly didn’t have a bad year. The Blues ended up champions of the Europa League at the end of it, beating London rivals Arsenal in the final to make the triumph even sweeter. Pedro was unquestionably a massive part of that impressive European run, which saw them clear the group stage unbeaten.
The Spaniard played in 14 matches at the tournament during the season, and finished with five goals and three assists to his name. He even scored a goal in the final against Arsenal, to give Maurizio Sarri what was the first trophy he’d ever won in his managerial career. Pedro’s work-rate and sheer passion towards the cause could be what has helped him secure a special place in the Italian’s heart.
What Is Pedro’s Current Situation At Chelsea?
Although the winger was heavily involved in proceedings last season, he has barely seen any action this time around. Frank Lampard’s arrival seems to have triggered the beginning of the end for Pedro’s Chelsea career, as he’s been used very sparingly in all competitions. He was given a start in the Blues’ weekend game against West Ham United, where he put up an absolutely abysmal performance at Stamford Bridge.
He’s played just four times in the league so far all season, and twice each in the Champions League and EFL Cup. He did pick up a goal in one of their league cup fixtures, but hasn’t really kicked on to pick up any sort of form from there on in. Lampard’s reluctance to use him means that he could be tempted not to extend his Chelsea deal as well.
Why Chelsea Should Offload Pedro In January
The Pensioners’ attacking play has been sensational this season, and they’ve clearly outgrown whatever attributes Pedro had to offer. With this new brand of football being employed at Stamford Bridge, the time could be right for Pedro to find a new home, where the quality he obviously possesses will be valued a lot more.
