Transfer Rumour: Chelsea star Pedro emerges as a target for Vissel Kobe

Vissel Kobe have set their sights on Chelsea’s ageing winger Pedro as they look to shore up their attack following the loss of Lukas Podolski.

According to Goal, Pedro has emerged as the latest target for Vissel Kobe. The J-League giants are keen on securing the services of the Chelsea winger, who is reportedly exploring his options after struggling to make himself a crucial member of Frank Lampard’s new-look setup.

Although Lampard is keen on keeping hold of Pedro, the Spaniard has already garnered a lot of attention in the market. Indeed, Kobe could face stiff competition from two MLS outfits in New York City FC and Inter Miami – co-owned by footballing and world icon David Beckham.

A move to Inter Miami could make sense given the opportunities Miami could offer. Not to mention, the city has a high number of Spanish speakers – making it easier for the attacker to settle in. Meanwhile, Pedro has also voiced his wish to return to Barcelona, though no top La Liga sides have made any efforts to lure him back to Spain.

Vissel Kobe, on the other hand, have signed a host of high-profile players over the past few years including Barcelona and footballing legend Andres Iniesta. The Japanese outfit also boasts the services of two more ex-Barcelona stars in Sergi Samper and Thomas Vermaelen.

However, they have had to deal with the departure of star striker Lukas Podolski this month. The German forward, who had scored 17 goals in 60 matches for the club, moved to Antalyaspor on a free transfer. That has left a huge void in the attacking department.

As for Pedro, he has struggled with a lack of game-time under Lampard this season, featuring in only 12 matches in all competitions. Five of those appearances came in the Premier League, with the winger failing to score or assist even a single goal. As a result, he has found himself trailing Christian Pulisic, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Willian down the pecking order, in the Chelsea attack.

A move to Kobe, therefore, makes a lot of sense. The ex-Barcelona star could provide the necessary attacking support to new signing Douglas, who arrived in January, in a free transfer from Shimizu S-Pulse.

Pedro could definitely thrive in the less intense and less demanding nature of J-League. But, at the same time, he should also consider his other options, knowing a move to MLS could prove to be beneficial for him as he nears the final phase of his career.