The Catalans are planning to add a new striker to their ranks next summer.
Barcelona are reportedly leading the race to sign Brazilian wonderkid Vitor Roque.
The 17-year-old striker made a big impression at the Under-20 South American Championships, scoring six goals in eight appearances to help Brazil to victory.
Football Manager 2023 players may already be familiar with Roque’s skills, as he is regarded as one of the game’s best ‘wonderkids’.
However, it seems his real-life talent has not gone unnoticed either. According to 90min, Barcelona are at the head of the queue for his services.
Several Premier League clubs are also keen, including Manchester United, Arsenal, West Ham United, and Newcastle United.
Athletico Paranaense president Celso Petraglia has admitted his club may not be able to hold on to their star player for much longer.
“There’s a race on top of Vitor Roque,” he said. “We cannot afford to pay what the Europeans pay. We’ve already received calls and offers, but they didn’t reach our number. It’s still a long way off.”
Roque’s potential has already drawn comparisons with former Barcelona and Liverpool striker Luis Suarez. The teenager’s instinct in front of the goal has helped him score ten goals in his 36 senior appearances for Athletico Paranaense.
Barcelona are confident that they can get a deal done for Roque but face stiff competition from the English clubs. It is believed that regular first-team football will be a key factor in the teenager’s decision.
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