Barcelona set sights on Chelsea forward Joao Pedro as Robert Lewandowski replacement this summer - Paper Round

Barcelona hope to sign Joao Pedro, Chelsea are set to announce Xabi Alonso as Liam Rosenior's replacement, Jorge Jesus will soon leave Al Nassr, and Dani Carvajal will not be kept on by Real Madrid.

The Catalans have scouted Chelsea forward Joao Pedro in anticipation of Robert Lewandowski’s departure this summer.

The Daily Mail reports that Barca director Deco is keen on Joao Pedro as well as Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford.

The paper writes: ”Barcelona sporting director Deco is expected at the FA Cup final today to run the rule over Chelsea forward Joao Pedro.

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”The 48-year-old Barcelona executive and former Chelsea midfielder has been in London this week for a series of meetings ahead of formulating transfer plans for the summer.

”With Robert Lewandowski coming to the end of his career, Barca want a striker that can fit into their system and have identified Joao Pedro as a prime candidate.

”Barcelona's pursuit of Joao Pedro does not alter their desire to sign Marcus Rashford too. However, with financial constraints, they still want to strike a cheap deal with Manchester United for the England international.”

Alonso set for Chelsea

The Sun believes that Chelsea are set to announce Xabi Alonso as their new permanent head coach.

The 44-year-old Spaniard left Real Madrid after a difficult spell as boss in La Liga was brought to a swift end.

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The paper reports: ”Xabi Alonso is on the verge of becoming Chelsea’s new boss.

”The Blues expect to confirm Alonso‘s appointment before Tuesday night’s home game against Tottenham – and perhaps as soon as tomorrow.

”Alonso, 44, has been out of work since being sacked by Real Madrid in January.

”And the former Liverpool star has agreed to join Chelsea, despite many Reds fans calling for Arne Slot to be sacked and their former hero to replace him.”

Jesus expected to leave Al Nassr

Al Nassr boss Jorge Jesus anticipates that he will leave the club as he waits for his favoured job to open up.

He hopes that Roberto Martinez will step aside as Portugal boss in the coming months to take charge of the national team.

The Mirror explains: ”Al Nassr manager Jorge Jesus plans to leave the club at the end of this season, a bombshell report has revealed hours before they could be crowned champions. Jesus, 71, is out of contract next month and doesn't intend to open talks over a new deal.

”The Portuguese hopes to go out in style by winning the Saudi Pro League title. Led by Cristiano Ronaldo, his side are currently five points clear at the top of the table with only one match left to play.

”Martinez's departure has been rumoured, so Jesus is hoping to lead his country at Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup which Portugal are co-hosting. Jesus took over at Al-Nassr last summer, becoming the fifth different manager whom Ronaldo has worked under since moving to the Middle East.”

Carvajal set for Real exit

Real Madrid defender and club captain Dani Carvajal will leave when his contract expires at the end of the season, according to The Athletic.

The 34-year-old will not have his contract extended, ending a 13-year stay with the Spanish giants.

The website states: ”Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal is set to leave the club upon the expiration of his contract this summer.

”The 34-year-old, a mainstay of Madrid’s senior squad for the past 13 seasons, is expected to leave the Spanish club as a free agent.

”Sources close to Carvajal say he is aware of the club’s decision not to renew his deal.”

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