AS Roma have made a surprise announcement that could affect the future of Chelsea winger Pedro.
The Serie A outfit have confirmed that sporting director Gianluca Petrachi has been suspended amid rumours of a 'furious row' with team president James Pallotta.
"The club can confirm that it has today suspended Gianluca Petrachi of his duties as sporting director with immediate effect," a statement via the club's official website reads. "The coach, and the team, will be guided directly by club CEO, Guido Fienga."
Reports in Italy claim that the 'row' was centered around the club's recruitment policy, with the president favoring a more bold approach over Petrachi's sell-to-buy approach.
Furthermore, the Daily Mail state Petrachi threatened to quit because of Pallotta's hesitation to make Pedro an offer with his deal at Stamford Bridge set to expire at the end of the month.
As a result, Pedro's future is uncertain at the moment.
It was understood that the 32-year-old was close to agreeing a two-year contract with Roma after initial discussions took place in April, but with Petrachi's sudden departure, the Spaniard might have to consider his options.
One person hoping for a swift resolution is new Chelsea signing Timo Werner.
The Blues activated the Germany striker's £53million release clause before it expired on June 15, and confirmed the deal - their second summer signing after Hakim Ziyech - on Thursday.
Now that all the formalities are completed, Werner needs to be allocated a shirt number.
The German currently wears no.11 at RB Leipzig and that squad number will only become available at Chelsea once Pedro's exit is confirmed.
But will that be at the end of the month or after the 2019/20 ends?
"I am delighted to be signing for Chelsea, it is a very proud moment for me to be joining this great club," Werner said after his move to west London was confirmed.
"I of course want to thank RB Leipzig, the club and the fans, for four fantastic years. You will forever be in my heart.
"I look forward to next season with my new team-mates, my new manager and of course the Chelsea fans. Together we have a very successful future ahead of us."
