Barcelona have been roundly criticized for their deal to sign Vitor Roque, with limited resources and a need for fresh impetus. Sporting director Deco pulled the trigger on a deal to bring Roque to the club for €30 million, plus €31 million in variables with Athletico Paranaense. However, the story will change if they can make a profit on the 19-year-old striker.
It seems unlikely that Roque will match the variables in the original deal as there is no sign of a future for him in Catalonia. This summer, the teenage striker moved to Real Betis on loan, with Los Verdiblancos loaning Roque and securing 20% of his rights, with a chance to earn that 80% in return for a further €25 million.
However, Brazilian giants Palmeiras retain a stake in Roque and have just picked up €40 million from Manchester City in exchange for centre-back Vitor Reis. They made a move earlier in January, but it seems it has fallen on deaf ears for a Roque determined to triumph in Europe. Sports reveal that Palmeiras are willing to pay 27 million euros for 80% of Roque's rights, a deal that would mean a profit of 3 million euros for the Blaugrana.
So far, O Verdao has failed to secure Roque's green light, and would also need Betis' approval for a winter move. However, they will continue their efforts this transfer window and return in the summer with a fresh approach.
This season, Roque has again shown promise but also a lack of clinical edge in front of goal, missing a key opportunity and scoring a penalty on his return to the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys against Barcelona. Roque started the majority of games for Manuel Pellegrini and scored seven goals and two assists in his 27 appearances this year with Benito Villamarin.
Comments