Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga and Chelsea forward Joao Pedro are expected to stay at their respective clubs this summer despite high-profile interest from across Europe. According to Fabrizio Romano, Camavinga has no intention of leaving the Bernabéu regardless of a difficult season and his recent omission from France’s World Cup squad, while Chelsea have reportedly blocked Barcelona’s approach for Joao Pedro, labelling the 24-year-old as untouchable ahead of their 2026 project.
Camavinga Commits to Real Madrid Rebuild
Despite experiencing what has been described as an unlucky season in the Spanish capital, the 23-year-old Eduardo Camavinga is determined to fight for his place in Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield. Romano reports that the player remains committed to the club, where he is currently protected by a €1 billion release clause following a recent contract extension through to 2029. This stance comes at a critical juncture for Madrid, who are navigating a rare trophyless season and the departure of Ancelotti to the Brazil national team. While TEAMtalk has suggested a potential exchange involving Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister, the player’s camp has reaffirmed his desire to remain the long-term successor to the club’s ageing midfield core.
Chelsea Block Barcelona Move for Joao Pedro
Chelsea have issued a firm hands-off warning to Barcelona regarding Joao Pedro. The Brazilian forward, who joined from Brighton in 2025 for £60 million, has established himself as the focal point of the Blues' attack with a 20-goal haul this term. Romano reports that Chelsea’s hierarchy views the striker as a non-negotiable component of the squad’s identity heading into the 2026/27 season. This firm stance contrasts with the situation at Atletico Madrid, where Julian Alvarez is attracting interest from PSG and Barcelona. However, Atletico’s high valuation of the Argentine international is understood to be a significant barrier for the Catalan club, further narrowing their options in the search for a new prolific number nine.
Slot Confirms Liverpool Stay
At Anfield, Arne Slot has moved to clarify his future following a period of fan unrest punctuated by boos after a recent 1-1 draw with Chelsea. Speaking on his position, Slot confirmed he is already collaborating with the Liverpool board on recruitment for the 2026/27 campaign. "I believe I will be the Liverpool coach next season," Slot stated, adding that he is personally involved in talks with prospective signings. This ends speculation regarding a move for Xabi Alonso, whom Romano confirms has not been approached by the Merseyside club despite persistent external rumours. The focus at Liverpool remains on stability as they look to refresh a squad that has struggled for consistency during Slot’s first full term.
With the World Cup approaching, these core squad decisions suggest Europe's elite are prioritising continuity over wholesale changes during the early summer window.