Xavi pushing Barcelona to bring in 18-year-old centre-forward in January

Injury concerns continue to mount in Barcelona, with Robert Lewandowski, Jules Kounde and Lamine Yamal being the latest players shifted to the sidelines. Of all the departments, however, it is safe to say that the centre-forward position is of the utmost concern.

Xavi Hernandez has no natural replacement for the No. 9 role. The Pole’s injury has forced him to deploy Ferran Torres in the position against Granada, but neither the Spaniard nor any options from the academy filled the void.

Barcelona eyeing Vitor Roque

Barcelona signed the solution to their centre-forward problems in the summer transfer window, securing the services of Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense in a deal worth €30 million plus €31 milllion in variables.

Owing to FFP situation, it was decided that the 18-year-old would remain with the Brazilian club until 2024 before ending up in Catalonia.

But according to Javi Miguel of AS, Xavi is now pushing to bring in the young sensation in January at any cost. His integration would not only bring versatility to Xavi’s table but also enable the manager to balance Lewandowski’s minutes.

Deco and several members of the Barça administration made it clear that they will do everything possible to bring Roque in January. The question, however, lies on the financial front.

Barcelona need to create sufficient space on the FFP front to bring the Brazilian in. They have two ideas to achieve the same – a cash injection of €40 million from German firm Libero, and the renewal of Frenkie de Jong with lower wages.

Roque recovering from an injury

Barcelona’s new recruit, Roque, suffered a gruesome injury last month on duty with Athletico Paranaense and has sat on the sidelines ever since.

His setback was soon diagnosed as a Grade III sprain and he was expected to be out until the end of the year.

AS adds that Xavi has personally called Roque and conveyed his intention to bring the player to Catalonia in January. He is thus focused on his recovery, although it remains to be seen if he can make it in time to play when he arrives.