In an exciting development for FC Barcelona, the Catalan giants have reportedly reached an agreement in principle to sign the highly talented Brazilian wonderkid, Vitor Roque, from Athletico Paranaense.
According to reliable sources such as Mundo Deportivo, both clubs have successfully negotiated a deal worth a fixed fee of €35 million ($38.5 million), with an additional €10 million ($11 million) in variable payments linked to performance-related targets, including goals scored.
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To alleviate any financial strain amid uncertain economic times, the larger sum will be split into three installments, offering crucial assistance to Barcelona. The agreement also includes a five-year contract for Roque, who just celebrated his 18th birthday on February 28th, ensuring his presence at Camp Nou until June 30, 2028.
In line with Barcelona’s strategy of safeguarding their emerging talents, the contract terms are expected to feature a staggering release clause of €1 billion ($1.01 billion), similar to previous arrangements with prodigies like Pedri, Gavi, and Ansu Fati. This clause aims to deter any potential interest from ambitious clubs, such as Paris Saint-Germain.
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Barcelona is keen to integrate Roque into their squad this summer, hoping that he will quickly assume the role of backup to the prolific striker Robert Lewandowski. Additionally, Roque’s arrival could create healthy competition in the right-wing position, challenging compatriot Raphinha and Ousmane Dembele.
However, owing to Barcelona’s ongoing struggles with contract registrations and the necessity to adhere to Financial Fair Play regulations, there is a possibility that the young talent might complete the remainder of the 2023 South American season with Athletico Paranaense before making the transatlantic move in January 2024.
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The finalization of the deal is expected to occur in the coming week as Barcelona and Athletico Paranaense exchange the necessary official documentation. Sporting director Deco, alongside Andre Cury, who previously held the position, have played pivotal roles in securing Roque’s signature, with Cury currently representing the promising Brazilian talent.
Crucially, negotiations were also facilitated by the presence of Athletico CEO Alexandre Mattos, who traveled to Barcelona over the weekend to ensure smooth discussions between the two clubs. With negotiations nearing completion, Mattos is set to return to Brazil with confidence that Roque will soon be officially transferred to the Catalan club.
Real Madrid and Chelsea had also expressed interest in the rising star, but it appears that Barcelona has emerged as the frontrunner in this captivating transfer saga, as reported by AS.
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According to Mundo Deportivo, Roque, who emerged as the joint-top scorer in Brazil’s South American U20 Championships, will earn a substantial annual salary of €3 million ($3.3 million) at Camp Nou. Should the young prodigy fulfill his expected potential, it is only natural that this figure will increase when his contract is extended.
Excitement is mounting within the Barcelona fanbase, eagerly anticipating the arrival of Vitor Roque, the future Brazilian superstar, who possesses incredible speed and skill. As the club finalizes the January move for this prodigious talent, all eyes will be on Roque’s journey as he aims to make a significant impact in the renowned Blaugrana colors.
