Brazilian starboy Vitor Roque has been on Barcelona’s radar since the year began. With the player keen on joining the Catalans, all that remains is sending an acceptable offer to Athletico Paranaense.
Roque has made his desire to join Barca clear on a number of occasions and appears to hold the Blaugrana club as his No. 1 priority amid interest from several European powerhouses, particularly from the Premier League.
According to Gabriel Sans and Roger Torello of Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona and Athletico Paranaense have ended their first meeting together without an agreement for Roque’s transfer. However, given the Brazilian’s insistence to join the Catalan giants, talks will resume again next week.
As per reports, Barcelona and Athletico hope to reach an agreement on a transfer fee of between €35 and €40 million.
The Brazilian is seen as the perfect heir to Robert Lewandowski, proving to be an investment for the present as well as the future. The 18-year-old sensation has thoroughly impressed in Brazil, despite his inexperience and young age.
Xavi emphasized the need for a backup striker, which indicates Barça will continue to pursue Roque until the very end.
If Barcelona face Financial Fair Play issues, it has been rumoured that the La Liga champions would loan him back to Athletico Paranaense through the end of 2023 and instead make his signing official in the January transfer window. Undoubtedly, this will come up during the conversations.
However, Barça will hope to seal the deal before the season begins. Once the impending departures are carried out successfully, there will merely be a few obstacles in the way, especially since the player has put Barcelona as his utmost priority.