It is no secret that Barcelona are gunning for the signing of Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Having turned 18 last month, the young striker will be eligible to leave Brazil for Europe and has already stated that he feels ready to play for a club of Barcelona’s stature.
In another interview with Globoesporte (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Roque has once again reiterated his desire to move to Camp Nou, stating that he is aware of the interest from Barcelona and that he hopes a transfer can be completed in the summer.
“I try to give my best at Athletico. I know Barcelona are interested and other clubs as well. But I want to focus here, I have a contract until 2027. I’m giving my best here, and who knows… if it’s good for Athletico, for me, for my family, I hope that a transfer can take place,” Roque said.
Further elaborating on his desire to join the Blaugrana, the 18-year-old striker highlighted that it is a big club and is known for giving opportunities to youngsters, which appeals to him.
“It’s a huge club, in which all the children dream of playing, not only in Barcelona, but in European clubs. Every child has this dream. But Barça is a club that always gives the youngsters a chance, it’s different,” he added.
A young centre-forward, Roque is seen as the ideal understudy to Robert Lewandowski at Barcelona before he can eventually replace the Pole as the first-choice striker.
Negotiations with Athletico Paranaense are already underway and the Blaugrana might have to shell out around €35 million in order to sign the Brazil Under-20 international in the summer transfer window.
