Arsenal have initiated contacts and possibly even placed a bid for Vitor Roque, with Barcelona also firmly in the chase.
According to UOL, Arsenal could have made a bid for Athletico Paranaense prodigy Vitor Roque alongside Barcelona. The 17-year-old is emerging on top of the list of big clubs, including the Gunners, but the Catalans may have an edge in negotiations for the €40 million-rated Brazilian.
Vitor Roque is emerging as the next big wonderkid to come out of Brazil. As FIFA rules prevent players from leaving the country for another league before their turn 18, the youngster will be eligible for a transfer in the summer.
The Athletico Paranaense prodigy is attracting much European interest, as clubs scramble to take him away. Barcelona are considered front-runners for the 17-year-old forward. However, the report suggests Arsenal are also in the chase and keen on bringing him to the Emirates.
Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar have eyes on many talents from Brazil. The latter has a massive network after spending a considerable time in a role with the Brazilian national side. Arsenal reportedly contacted Roque’s agents using his connections recently, but nothing has moved forward.
A report on Goal had information via Globo Esporte from Roque’s agent Andre Cury, who suggested there were at least three offers from clubs in Europe, including a Spanish outfit. Globo later confirmed that team as Barcelona, but Athletico Paranaense have rejected all proposals for the 17-year-old star as they demand at least €40 million for the teenager.
One of the suitors could have been Arsenal, with Arteta keen on the versatile forward. Roque can play centrally or on either wing, something the Gunners boss likes. All those reported offers were around €25 million. But Athletico Paranaense want around €40 million to negotiate any potential transfer.
Roque has a huge €100 million release clause in his contract, which runs until April 2027. While Athletico Paranaense do not expect to get that kind of money for the youngster, they will likely look for at least €40 million, if not more.
With the Gunners making exploratory contact, Barcelona will face a bidding war for the forward. It could come as an advantage for Arsenal if the deal depends on money, although the player is thought to like the prospect of playing for the Blaugrana, like many other Brazilians.
As the summer transfer window comes closer, a transfer battle could ensue for Roque and his signature. Arsenal and Barcelona are top prospects for the youngster. But ultimately it will come down to the transfer fees. In the current scenario, amid Barcelona’s financial struggles, the Gunners could take the lead.
