Arsenal placed Chelsea forward João Pedro on their summer transfer shortlist, though a move never materialised due to tactical compatibility concerns and Chelsea's firm refusal to negotiate. Despite sporting director Andrea Berta being spotted in conversation with the 24-year-old following Arsenal's recent 2-1 win over Chelsea, a short-term move remains highly unlikely. Mikel Arteta has instead recommitted to striker Viktor Gyökeres, ruling out any departure for the Swedish international.
Tactical doubts and contract hurdles blocked João Pedro bid
According to reports from BBC Sport and Goal, Arsenal ultimately decided against lodging a formal bid for João Pedro because of concerns over how the forward would fit into Arteta's fluid attacking system. Chelsea also held a firm stance, viewing the forward as completely untouchable after he scored 23 goals in 53 appearances last season. The West London club secured Pedro's long-term future in August by signing him to a lucrative new contract, which leaves him with eight years remaining on his current deal.
Arteta confirms Gyökeres stay to maintain frontline continuity
Rather than pushing for a different profile like Pedro, Arsenal have resolved to back Gyökeres, who scored 21 goals in all competitions last season. Despite experiencing some challenges adapting to the Premier League, his physical presence is highly valued by Arteta. Speaking after a preseason friendly, Arteta dismissed transfer speculation surrounding the Swede, stating: "Yes, he's going to stay." When asked about external targets, Arteta added: "I'm not going to talk about a footballer who isn't ours."
What next for Arsenal and João Pedro?
A transfer in 2026 is virtually ruled out given Chelsea's stance and the length of Pedro's contract. Any potential transfer would likely only occur from 2027 onwards, and even then, only if Chelsea significantly lower their valuation or the player actively pushes for a move. For now, Arsenal will rely on Gyökeres to spearhead their attack, while Pedro remains a core pillar of Chelsea's long-term project under Xabi Alonso.
