Barcelona believed that they had secured a long-term striker in Vitor Roque, thinking they had their future set—only to realize they were wrong. He was highly touted, with sporting director Deco personally backing him, but he turned out to be a complete flop.So much so that, just a year after arriving at the Catalan club, he is set to leave—permanently. Barcelona’s management has decided to cut all ties and recover a significant portion of their investment to patch up budgetary holes and avoid the risk of Vitor Roque’s market value plummeting even further. By Friday at the latest—possibly even as soon as tomorrow—the Brazilian will return to his homeland. However, instead of rejoining Athletico Paranaense, the club that launched his career, he is heading to Palmeiras.🚨🇧🇷 | VITOR ROQUE is on his way back to Brazil and will sign for Palmeiras next week! pic.twitter.com/SMGY0azH7I— All Things Brazil™ 🇧🇷 (@SelecaoTalk) February 23, 2025 Most of the deal has already been agreed upon, with only minor details left to finalize—not with Barcelona, but with Real Betis.Barcelona had sent “El Tigre” on loan to the Andalusian club in late August, initially planning for him to stay until the summer. However, that stint is set to end much earlier, as Barcelona has received an offer they cannot refuse. The only remaining hurdle is Betis’ approval, though given their strong relationship with Barcelona, they are likely to agree.The transfer fee will be 25 million euros, with Barcelona retaining 20% of any future sale. Betis, meanwhile, is negotiating to secure a small percentage for themselves.##EDITORS_CHOICE##Vitor Roque likely played his final game for Real Betis last night against Getafe. Palmeiras is eager to finalize the deal quickly, as the Brazilian transfer window closes on Friday. All documentation is expected to be reviewed again today, with the papers ready for signing—waiting only for Betis’ approval. If they agree, Palmeiras will be required to pay the full transfer fee to Barcelona by June 30 due to the club’s ongoing financial struggles.Despite the sale, Barcelona will not fully recover their initial investment. The club spent 30 million to acquire Vitor Roque, including performance-based bonuses tied to matches played, goals scored, titles won, and even a potential Ballon d’Or.None of those milestones will be reached—only the fixed sum will be recouped.🚨 Vitor Roque has no future at Barcelona in any case, no matter what happens with Palmeiras and Betis.Hansi Flick doesn’t count on Roque and selling the Brazilian remains one of the next moves planned.“I only focus on my players and he decided to leave”, Flick says. pic.twitter.com/KhVGBRblg1— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 21, 2025 The breakdown between Roque and Barcelona started under Xavi Hernandez and did not improve under Hansi Flick. One of the most promising talents of his generation has turned out to be a failed investment for Barcelona. He will now attempt to revive his career in Sao Paulo, with playing time not expected to be an issue. His agent, Andre Cury, has a strong relationship with Palmeiras’ president, Leila Pereira.Now, all that remains is for Betis to give the green light.##NAJAVA_MECA_8726799##
