17-year-old Brazilian wonderkid will push for Barcelona move

 

Earlier this week, Barcelona director Mateu Alemany had a meeting with Deco to discuss the club’s strategy with regard to the South American market. Soon, reports emerged that one of the names discussed during the meeting was that of Athletico Paranaense striker Vitor Roque.

The 17-year-old centre-forward has been making waves with his performances for Athletico Paranaense in Brazil over the past year. In 36 matches for the club, Roque has seven goals and three assists, as he helped them reach the Copa Libertadores finals last year.

Currently, the youngster is representing Brazil at the South American U-20 Championship in Colombia, where he has netted three goals in two matches.

Barcelona, who have a scout following players at the tournament, have very good reports on Roque, reports SPORT.

Known fondly as ‘Tigrinho’, the 17-year-old forward is capable of playing as a No. 9 or on the wings and is known for his link-up play and tactical understanding of the game which belie his young age.

Barcelona, for their part, are convinced that Vitor Roque is a much more complete forward and boasts greater potential than fellow Brazilian wonderkid Endrick, who opted to join Real Madrid recently.

Barcelona had held an interest in Endrick, but ultimately did not decide to go for him, firstly because of the investment that was needed for a 16-year-old and also the fact that they believe Vitor Roque can be an even better signing for the club.

The report further adds that the 17-year-old striker will push to sign for Barcelona if they come through with an approach. Such a scenario means that the Catalans do not expect a bidding war for the young forward.

Athletico Paranaense, for their part, will demand a fee of around €30 million for their prized asset, but would be willing to accept the payment in three instalments over three seasons, which would make the operation much easier for Barça.

Vitor Roque will turn 18 years old next month and would be able to move to Europe in the summer. And, Barcelona seem ready to push for the Brazilian prodigy’s signing, with the player also open to moving to Catalonia, as per the report.

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