Barcelona director makes “fair play” admission on Vitor Roque links

The Catalans are eager to add the Brazilian starlet to their ranks in January.

Barcelona director Deco has offered an update on the club’s desire to complete Vitor Roque’s transfer in January.

Barca reached a €30m agreement with Athletico Paranaense for Roque in the summer transfer window. The 18-year-old was set to arrive at Barca in July 2024, but the Catalans’ squad issues have intensified reports around a possible winter move for the forward.

On Wednesday, Deco hinted that Barca would respect Athletico Paranaense’s desire to keep Roque until the end of the season.

“In January, the important players play in their teams and I don’t see it as easy to sign an important player who can bring us things in the winter market,” Deco told SPORT.

On the matter of incorporating Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense in January, he added: “The incorporation of Vitor Roque will be a matter of fair play. Depending on what we generate, we would do it.”

Earlier this week, a report from Relevo claimed that Barcelona are no longer pushing to sign Roque in January. The club will most likely focus on transfer for other areas of the pitch, including a possible replacement for Gavi. The Spain international will stay out of action for months after sustaining an ACL injury in Spain’s 3-1 victory over Georgia on Sunday.