Brazilian club confirm interest in signing Barcelona youngster – ‘We’re working tirelessly’

Over the past few weeks, rumblings around the future of Barcelona striker Vitor Roque, currently on loan at Real Betis, have been growing steadily with Palmeiras showing an interest in signing him.

The young Brazilian has not had it easy in the year he has spent in Spain but remains a wanted commodity back in his homeland, where the winter transfer window is open until February 28.

Even though Real Betis had come out and quashed talks of a potential departure for the striker, it appears that Palmeiras are not giving up.

Palmeiras president confirms interest in Roque

Indeed, Palmeiras president Leila Pereira has publicly confirmed for the first time that the club is working to sign Vitor Roque before the end of February.

In an interview with Brazilian channel SporTV (h/t SPORT), Pereira stated: “If it were up to me, yes, I would sign him.”

Pereira acknowledged the complexity of the operation, which currently involves three parties – Palmeiras, Barcelona, and Real Betis.

The key factor is that Real Betis must agree to release Vitor Roque without financial compensation, despite knowing they will not be able to replace him, as the La Liga transfer window is already closed.

“If it were up to me alone, I would guarantee his signing. However, this is a matter that does not depend solely on me. The situation involves other clubs, his representatives, and the player himself,” she explained.

“Since this decision affects multiple parties, I cannot say for certain that it will happen.”

However, the Brazilian giants not giving up and will continue their pursuit in the next ten days.

“We are working tirelessly,” Pereira assured, convinced that the Barcelona-owned forward, currently on loan at Betis until June 30, is the ideal No. 9 for manager Abel Ferreira’s squad.

€27 million needed

Currently, Vitor Roque is on a one-year loan at Betis from Barcelona, with an option to extend for a second season. His agreement includes a €25 million purchase option for 80% of his economic rights, with Barcelona retaining the remaining 20%.

If Betis agrees to release Roque, Barcelona could facilitate his move to Palmeiras. However, the Blaugrana are not willing to accept a deal below the financial terms agreed with their La Liga rivals.

Reports suggest that Barça would settle for a fee of €27 million plus add-ons as it would ensure that they do not take any losses on the player. However, Real Betis must also give their okay for the deal to see the light of the day.