€45 million-rated Brazilian whizkid remains Barcelona’s top priority in attack – report

Barcelona have a busy summer ahead. The club must not only replace the departing Sergio Busquets, but also sign a new striker who can add some depth in the goalscoring department and release some pressure off Robert Lewandowski.

For a long time, the club have been closely targeting a move for Vitor Roque. The Athletico Paranaense starlet is regarded as the next big thing in Brazilian football along with Endrick and clubs have been lining up for his services ahead of the new season.

Barcelona are no exception, but there are doubts about whether or not the club have the financial capacity to sign the youngster this summer.

Indeed, recent reports have suggested that the Blaugrana’s pursuit of the €45 million whizkid has gone cold of late.

But Mundo Deportivo suggests Barcelona still consider Roque as their top attacking target in the coming summer.

With 15 goals in just over 50 competitive matches for Athletico PR, Roque has impressed the Barcelona scouts with his productivity up top. He is also known for his versatility, with the youngster capable of operating in the wider attacking positions.

Vitor’s qualities, therefore, could prove to be handy for Barcelona as they look to sign a long-term replacement for Lewandowski.

Although the Brazilian will not replace the Pole anytime soon, he could certainly complement the ageing forward in the attacking department before taking over eventually.

The imminent appointment of Deco should also greatly help Barça negotiate a deal with Roque, as the former midfielder has an excellent connection with the South American market.

With these things in mind, there is hope Barcelona can still sanction a move for the young attacking whizkid at the end of the season. But the coming weeks could be crucial for the club, as they must secure fresh funds by offloading a few of the unwanted stars from Camp Nou.

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