The truth behind Pedro's transfer situation
Pedro's future continues to be a mystery. Not even the words of new technical secretary Robert Fernandez have dispelled the doubts. But the reality is that Pedro's future depends solely on Pedro. The forward will continue at Barça if he wants to. And he will only go from the Blaugrana if he decides to. In order to change club, they will have to pay his release clause of 30 million euros. Not a penny less.
Pedro has spoken in recent weeks with all of Barcelona's decision makers. And the answer that he has received has always been the same: "We want you to stay." This is what manager Luis Enrique said. This is what president Josep Maria Bartomeu said. And this is what technical secretary Robert Fernandez said. Even the fans have said so, chanting his name during the Gamper. But the player still hasn't made a decision.
The truth around the Pedro situatuion is that the player doesn't want to continue being a substitute at Barça. He considers that, at 28-years-of-age, he has to have won a starting place. But he is aware of the trident which has been formed ahead of him by Messi, Suarez and Neymar. And although last season he played in 49 games, he only started 22 of them. Not much towards his aspirations.
Pedro should decide soon if he accepts this role of 'luxury substitute' at treble-winning Barça, or if he is to go to start for Van Gaal's Manchester United. Barça already have an offer on the table from Man United for 26 million euros, but they don't want to drop below his clause of 30. Furthermore, the English club now have an additional 63 million euros from the Di Maria transfer to PSG. They have the money to make the deal.
Pedro, in fact, has already reached a financial agreement with Manchester United. With a deal that is easily above what he gets at Barça. Although sources are sure that he is not going for the money, it is a purely footballing matter. Whatever happens, the soap opera is reaching its end. Van Gaal wants Pedro for the Champions League playoffs on the 18th of August. In the coming days he could have his final answer.
In terms of a hypothetical replacement for Pedro, if he finally decides to go, Barça are unable to close a potential deal. Basically, because the new man wouldn't be able to play until January. Nolito is an option, although there still isn't a concrete offer. Sources close to the club assure that they won't get their transfer folders out until Pedro says whether he is staying or going.
