Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta was seen in conversation with Chelsea forward Joao Pedro on Sunday in the tunnel at the Emirates Stadium after Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea. BBC Sport confirmed that Pedro was on Arsenal's list of transfer targets during the summer, and that there was interest in him before Transfer Deadline Day. A transfer to Arsenal will almost certainly be ruled out by Chelsea in 2027. The Brazilian player was designated as one of their 'untouchable' players this summer and has scored two goals and provided two assists in his first three league matches of this season. Pedro has a contract with Chelsea that has eight years remaining, and it would likely require a British record transfer fee for the club to contemplate a sale, particularly to a direct competitor such as Arsenal.

According to Goal.com, Arsenal did not sign Chelsea striker Joao Pedro this summer due to tactical concerns from manager Mikel Arteta about his system fit. Before the club's hierarchy made a final decision, Joao Pedro was being considered by Arsenal.

Arsenal and Barcelona indicated a willingness to offer more than 100 million euros for João Pedro. In response, Chelsea made the forward non-transferable and advanced talks to extend his contract. João Pedro is now expected to sign a one-year extension until 2033, which includes a considerable salary increase.