Ahead of the summer transfer window, Barcelona have chosen four areas of reinforcement for the squad. This includes a right-back, a left-footed centre-back, a defensive midfielder, and a backup striker for Robert Lewandowski.
The Catalans have also listed down their ideal choice for each position, with Juan Foyth chosen for the right-back position, Inigo Martinez for central defence, Martin Zubimendi as Sergio Busquets’ successor, and finally Vitor Roque as the club’s long-term centre-forward.
Among these, Barcelona seem most keen to bring in Roque, who is currently playing for Athletico Paranaense. At 18, he is regarded as one of the most talented forwards in Brazil right now, and has been on Barça’s radar for months.
However, according to AS, signing him will not be easy as Athletico are demanding €50 million for 85% of his rights.
The Brazilian outfit feel economically strong right now, and will not put their foot down during negotiations. As such, they want to retain 15% of the player’s rights in case a future transfer takes place.
Barcelona had already sent an offer worth €25 million for Roque, which was swiftly rejected by Athletico. They believe they are still in pole position for his signature, though, and could send officials for Brazil’s game against Morocco, where Roque is expected to make his international debut.
Roque seems excited by the prospect of playing for Barcelona, too, and has already spoken about it, saying, “I feel ready to play for Barcelona.”
At present, it seems Barcelona’s idea is to bring him in the summer transfer window, after which he will spend at least one season as Lewandowski’s backup before the club tries to mould him into their long-term striker.
In any case, though, it is clear that Joan Laporta will have to fight tooth and nail against La Liga and Javier Tebas if they want to sign players at all in the summer.
