BARCELONA (AFP) – Barcelona have secured a promising addition to their squad, as they announce their agreement to sign talented striker Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense, a Brazilian football club.
The 18-year-old forward is set to join Barcelona at the beginning of the 2024-25 season, signing a contract that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2031.
Barcelona confirmed in a statement that Roque’s release clause is EUR500 million (USD551 million).
According to reports in Spain, the transfer fee for the Brazilian striker is EUR30 million, with an additional EUR31 million in potential add-ons.
Facing financial challenges, Barcelona have made smart moves in the transfer market by acquiring Ilkay Gundogan and Inigo Martinez on free transfers.
Due to La Liga financial restrictions, Barcelona can only spend 50% of their savings or new income, as determined by the Spanish league.
Roque, regarded as one of the brightest talents in Brazilian football, has been in remarkable form, scoring six goals in his last six games.
Notably, the young forward made his debut for the Brazilian national team in March and is capable of playing in various positions, including wider areas and through the middle.
Earlier this year, Roque emerged as the top goalscorer at the South American Under-20 championship, netting six goals to help Brazil claim the title.
While Roque’s arrival is promising, Barcelona is still in search of a holding midfielder to fill the void left by captain Sergio Busquets, who departed to join Inter Miami.
