Barcelona do not have an agreement to sign €40 million-rated teenage striker – Romano

On Tuesday evening, reports emerged claiming that Barcelona had wrapped up the signing of Athletico Paranaense and Brazil striker Vitor Roque. It was suggested that the Catalans had agreed a deal worth €40 million, to be paid over three instalments, while securing a five-year contract agreement with the 18-year-old.

However, as per the latest update from Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona do not have any such agreement with Athletico Paranaense for the capture of Roque as of yet. Negotiations are understood to be going on between the two parties, while the teenage sensation continues to wait for the Blaugrana.

Roque continues to be a top priority for Barça heading into the summer transfer window. However, a deal will depend on their Financial Fair Play situation and the La Liga champions cannot proceed with an offer until there are some sales made.

Athletico Paranaense, for their part, continue to hold out for a minimum fee of €40 million for their wonderkid. And the centre-forward is willing to wait for Barcelona despite attracting interest from several other top European clubs.

Arsenal, for one, were said to be interested in signing Roque. However, they are not planning to proceed with an official bid for the 18-year-old as they deem the €40 million asking price too steep.

It does clear one hurdle from Barça’s path, but the club still need to strike an agreement with Athletico Paranaense.

Xavi Hernandez & co. are fixated on signing a new striker who can provide cover and competition for Robert Lewandowski, before eventually replacing him as the main man at the club.

Roque is seen as an ideal fit given his age, talent, and immense potential. The 18-year-old has made a blazing start to the 2023 campaign in Brazil, having already netted ten goals and set up five more in 25 appearances across all competitions.

But, as things stand, there is still no agreement between Barcelona and Athletico, although negotiations are taking place.

Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.