With the summer transfer window not very far away, one of the priorities for FC Barcelona is to sign a new centre-forward.
As things stand, manager Xavi Hernandez has Robert Lewandowski as the only natural striker at his disposal and the Catalans have been heavily reliant on him for goals. So, it is only sensible for them to address the situation before next season.
And, Vitor Roque of Athletico Paranaense has been identified as the primary target to strengthen the centre-forward position in the summer.
The 18-year-old prodigy is regarded as one of the next best things to be coming out of Brazil and several top clubs across Europe, such as Arsenal, Chelsea, PSG, and Newcastle United are all interested in his services.
However, Barcelona have an edge over their competitors in the race as Roque and his entourage is understood to favour a move to Catalonia.
But, with his transfer fee expected to be in excess of €40 million, the newly-crowned La Liga champions find themselves in a disadvantageous position due to their Financial Fair Play restrictions.
As such, Mundo Deportivo is reporting that Barcelona are studying various different formulas through which they can sign Roque in the summer.
One of the options being looked into is that Barça sign the 18-year-old centre-forward on loan with a mandatory permanent purchase clause for 2024. That would allow the club to recover financially and the deal would not be a burden on them, Fair Play-wise either.
Antoher possibility that Barça are looking into is making payments to Athletico Paranaense in instalments over multiple years as it would again reduce the financial burden on the club.
But the Brazilian outfit will make it tough in negotiations and the presence of clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Newcastle, who can shell out money without any issues, complicates matters further for Barcelona.
However, the player’s desire to join the club and the impending appointment of Deco as sporting director could help matters.
