Barcelona agree first transfer after Messi failure - but three stars must leave
Barcelona have agreed a deal to sign Brazilian wonderkid Vitor Roque this summer but can only rubber-stamp a transfer after three current stars leave the club.
The Spanish giants are in the market this summer for additions despite their tricky financial situation. The Catalans have had worries concerning cash for the last few seasons - a huge reason as to why they at first had to let club icon Lionel Messi leave and also why they couldn’t bring him back this summer.
However, it appears they are closing in on what would be a considerable first deal of the window with the signing of striker Vitor from Athletico Paranaense. They have been linked with a move for his services for some time, with boss Xavi remaining tight-lipped when asked about a deal last month.
“Update on Vitor Roque deal? We're in control as we're well informed on the situation for Victor, we are keeping control right now,” the Spaniard revealed. “Our financial situation will be crucial to understand what’s going to happen with Vitor deal."
Now, it appears they have secured a move. According to AS, Barcelona will pay €40million (£34m) to sign the 18-year-old, who will put pen to paper on a five-year-contract. However, there is still work to be done to officially confirm his arrival.
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It is suggested that Barca still need to cut their cloth in order to register new players. As many as three first-team stars could be shown the exit door.
Barcelona are close to signing Brazilian striker Vitor Roque (Getty Images)Who do you think Barcelona should sign this summer? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati and Franck Kessie are all among the candidates who could leave with all three linked with moves away from the club. A number of club legends have already left including Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.
Should Barcelona manage to push through a deal for Vitor, then Arsenal icon and former Brazilian international Gilberto Silva would have been proved spot-on about his future. Speaking earlier this season, he said: “I’ve heard rumours that Vitor Roque is actually going to Spain. I’m not sure how true that is however.
“Both of them [Vitor and Endrick] are really good players and it is part of the Brazilian culture to produce great players for top European teams. Vitor Roque is doing really well at Athletico Paranaense and Endrick is another promising player.”
Vitor has enjoyed a brilliant 2022/23 season with Athletico Paranense. In 25 appearances in all competitions for the Brazilian outfit, he has scored 10 goals and provided five assists.
His form was good enough to see him earn his first international call-up and cap for Brazil back in March in a 2-1 friendly defeat to Morocco. He also helped his nation to win the under-20 South American championship.
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