Vitor Roque and Athletico Paranaense awaiting clarity over Barcelona move in January

Barcelona are transitioning to a younger team, with the defence and midfield now primarily boasting players in their early twenties.

The forward department has seen change too, with the likes of Lamine Yamal and Joao Felix taking prominence this season.

The centre-forward department, however, continues to lag behind. Barcelona are without a proper backup for Robert Lewandowski and were forced to deploy Ferran Torres as a striker last month when the Pole was unavailable.

A ready solution

Barcelona’s only long-term solution for the No. 9 position, as it stands, is Vitor Roque.

The young Brazilian sensation has made headlines this season for his high-quality performances with Athletico Paranaense and has already signed a contract with the Blaugranas.

Financial Fair Play troubles impeded his move to Catalonia last summer, with the initial idea being that he would join Barcelona one year later.

Yet, the Spanish outfit now see his arrival in winter to be feasible and are working towards it.

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Roque and Athletico Paranaense are waiting for Barcelona to inform them whether or not the striker can make the move in January.

The green light from Joan Laporta can fast-track the move if the finances permit.

Reports suggest that Barça would need an FFP margin of around €13-14 million to register Roque in January, but the club are mulling over the possibility of signing a new pivot midfielder instead, pushing the teenager’s arrival to next summer.

Barcelona set a deadline

According to a recent report, Barcelona are uncertain about when they should bring the Brazilian into their dynamics.

January remains the best option, for it would allow Lewy to be rested often and give the youngster enough time to adapt. Yet, the finances are complicated.

As it stands, Barcelona will take a decision by the 15th of November taking into account his recovery from injury, the club’s economic situation, and the manager’s request.