Serie A giants Napoli are reportedly interested in signing disgruntled 19-year-old Barcelona prodigy Vitor Roque in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Spanish outlet SPORT, Vitor Roque is the subject of interest from SSC Napoli. The Serie A giants are the latest high-profile club to show interest in the 19-year-old striker, whose situation at FC Barcelona has left him disgruntled heading into the summer transfer window.
Vitor Roque and his Barcelona frustrations
Vitor Roque has endured a frustrating campaign since joining Barcelona from Athletico Paranaense in January 2024. A native of Timóteo, he spent most of his formative years in his homeland before graduating from the youth division at Athletico Paranaense. The youngster was a regular for the Brazilian club in the 2023 season, going from strength to strength every week.
The 19-year-old secured a dream move to Barcelona earlier this year but endured a frustrating second half of the 2023/24 season. The young striker managed only 353 minutes of game time across 16 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona, scoring two goals. So, it is hardly surprising that he is disgruntled at the Catalan club.
Vitor Roque’s exploits with Athletico Paranaense mean he is still a highly-coveted attacker in the market heading into the summer transfer window. High-profile clubs like Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, Juventus, and Manchester United are interested in the Barcelona prodigy. However, his next destination might be Napoli.
Serie A move on the cards?
Napoli’s interest in Vitor Roque is understandable. The Serie A giants are scouring the market for a striker heading into the summer transfer window amid uncertainties surrounding the future of Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian international is a target for several well-known outfits, including Arsenal.
So, several candidates have emerged on Napoli’s radar, with Vitor Roque’s name also featuring in the club’s wishlist. The disgruntled Barcelona prodigy can find a stable footing in his career after failing to stamp his authority at FC Barcelona.
Recent reports have also suggested that Barcelona might not stand in Vitor Roque’s way if he wants a summer departure. The Brazilian striker’s exit will help the Catalan giants balance their books, making a summer move an attractive prospect for the Blaugrana.
