As previously reported, Barcelona are heavily interested in the up-and-coming Brazilian prodigy, Vitor Roque. The Catalan club is counting on its brand value to lure the sensational teenager. The club’s relationship with Deco and Roque’s agent can also be helpful to get hold of the youngster. However, there is competition from Manchester United and PSG, which complicates the operation.
A recent report from SPORT has provided new updates into this potential transfer. The report claims that the Brazilian has decided not to commit to any club in this winter window. He will continue his growing trajectory with Athletico Paranaense for now, and wait for Barcelona to make a move in the summer window. He will start life at the Catalan club as a deputy for Robert Lewandowski, and would gradually get a more prominent role in the team.
Furthermore, he will be eligible to sign a professional contract only in February. Thus, a summer move makes better sense for both Barcelona and Roque himself. Athletico Paranaense value their player at around €30 million.
This seems in line with the market, as Real Madrid bought another Brazilian starlet, Endrick, for €70 million from Palmeiras. While spending such an amount is difficult for Barcelona right now, they expect some of their fringe players to depart in the upcoming summer window, which would give more space to the Catalan club to undertake such an operation.