Barcelona set to make move for 18-year-old Brazilian prodigy after exit operations

Barcelona have a priority list prepared for the summer transfer window as they look to reinforce their team for next season. The Catalans have the green light from La Liga to start their transfer operations, starting with exits.

Xavi has already talked about the need to sign a pivot before anything else, followed by other positions, such as central midfield, right-back, left-wing, and also centre-forward.

While signing a striker is far from a priority, Barcelona still want to add depth to that position as Robert Lewandowski is, one, left without a second-choice option in the squad.

Secondly, with Lewandowksi turning 35 this year, they will need to sort out a long-term replacement for the Pole.

Their first-choice option for that role is Brazilian teenager Vitor Roque. While they considered it difficult to move for the player this summer, now it is being reported by SPORT that Barcelona are ready to make a move for him in the summer.

They will actively pursue the player after completing the ‘exit operations’ from the squad so as to raise enough money to pay for his €40 million-plus valuation.

Roque has convinced Barcelona’s coaching staff, and has the approval of the technical staff and the scouting department, including directors Mateu Alemany and Deco. The club bet on him strongly, and believe his technical and physical attributes can help him mark an era at the club.

Still 18, Roque will serve as Lewandowski’s backup in his first season, and will eventually be promoted to take over the role. The player believes he is already ready to play for the club, and is ready for the transfer to Europe.

“I feel ready to play for Barcelona,” Roque said. “Look, I try to stay focused on the day-to-day and give my best at Athlético. I’m sure that if I do well here, going to Europe will be a possibility.”