Chelsea star Pedro admits Barcelona talks occurred over summer but insists he feels good under Antonio Conte
Winger was linked with Stamford Bridge exit over summer but has embedded himself as important player this season
CHELSEA star Pedro admits he explored a Barcelona return over the summer – but insists he is now happy under Antonio Conte.
The winger was snapped up by Jose Mourinho last year for £19million despite strong interest from Manchester United.
Pedro got off to a dream debut, scoring and assisting in the 3-2 win over West Brom, but quickly lost form as Chelsea’s title defence crashed and burned.
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Reports in the recent transfer window linked Pedro with a move back to the Nou Camp, with Valencia also reportedly interested.
And while the 29-year-old concedes he did hold talks with Barca, he believes he made the right choice in staying after firing Chelsea to victory over Mourinho’s United last weekend.
Pedro said: “I talked with Bartomeu. But it was given more importance than the conversation merited.
“It is difficult to return somewhere, but you always have memories of a spell with a club.
“My opinion of [ex-Real Madrid boss] Mourinho changed when he became my coach. He was always clear and correct to me.
“I am happy with the playing time I am getting now [under Conte]. It is always good to play your part and help the team with goals whenever possible. I am feeling well physically.”