It appears that Vitor Roque’s early arrival at Barcelona may have been a misstep. The Catalan club had secured the Atlético Paranaense striker well in advance, paying the Brazilian club 30 million euros with the plan to bring him to Camp Nou this June. However, Gavi’s injury accelerated the process, leading to the transfer being completed during the winter transfer window. In addition to the fixed 30 million, Barcelona had allocated a substantial sum through bonuses (reportedly around 40 million) to the Curitiba-based club. Vitor Roque was believed to be a player destined for great achievements. However, just eight months after his arrival in Barcelona, the 19-year-old has become unwanted.🚨 𝘽𝙍𝙀𝘼𝙆𝙄𝙉𝙂 ! Everton est prêt à payer 28M pour Victor Roque, mais le Barça demande 30-35M€ ! 🇧🇷 (🗞️@Plettigoal) pic.twitter.com/zarP0v8Bw9— 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗮 𝗡𝗼𝘄 🇫🇷 (@BarcaNowActu_FR) August 14, 2024 He failed to establish himself under Xavi’s guidance, and Spanish media reports suggest that during the pre-season, he didn’t convince new coach Hansi Flick that he deserved more trust. In the second half of last season, he played 353 minutes across 16 matches and scored two goals, which is considered an insufficient performance for a player expected to be among the team’s stars.Victor Roque has been compared to Vini…by his agentAt the start of the current transfer window, reports suggested that Lazio was interested in the young Brazilian, with plans to bring him in on loan and potentially make the move permanent for 25 million if he impressed. Later, Everton came forward with a slightly higher offer—28 million for an immediate purchase. However, this did not meet the demands of Joan Laporta, who is seeking around 35 million for the player, according to Catalan outlet Sport.Ten years later, he’s back home – ready to put Barca back on the throneAccording to journalist Matteo Moretto of Relevo, Sporting Lisbon has also shown interest in Roque and is reportedly willing to meet Barcelona’s asking price. This July, the Portuguese champions sold Paulinho to Mexican club Toluca for nearly 8 million, but they still have Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish forward was targeted by Arsenal and Chelsea at the end of last season, and it seemed likely that he would be sold quickly. However, he continued to wear Sporting’s jersey in the Super Cup match against Porto and at the start of the Primeira Liga. Roque’s arrival could potentially signal Gyökeres’ departure from the Lions, especially with two weeks remaining in the transfer window.LA LIGA – MATCHDAY 1Thursday 20.00: (1.50) Ath.Bilbao (4.10) Getafe (8.50)22.30: (2.40) Betis (3.45) Girona (3.15)Friday 20.00: (2.10) Celta (3.45) Alaves (3.90)22.30: (2.95) Las Palmas (3.15) Sevilla (2.55)Saturday 20.00: (1.85) Osasuna (3.45) Leganes (4.50)22.30: (4.90) Valencia (3.60) Barcelona (1.75)Sunday 20.00: (1.62) Sociedad (3.50) Rayo Vallecano (6.50)22.30: (6.75) Mallorca (4.00) Real Madrid (1.53)Monday 20.00: (2.40) Valladolid (3.25) Espanyol (3.30)22.30: (3.25) Villareal (3.45) Atl.Madrid (2.20)***odds are subject to change***
