Everton are reportedly in discussions to secure the services of Barcelona’s rising star, Vitor Roque, in a deal that could be worth over £25 million. As the summer transfer window nears its conclusion, the Toffees are looking to bolster their attacking options for the 2024/25 Premier League season, with Roque emerging as a target.
🚨🆕 FC Everton continuing to explore deal to sign Vitor #Roque ✔️
… with a first offer of €25m + €3m add-ons. Immediately rejected by Barcelona as they want €30-35m. Understand that Everton are in ongoing talks with Deco.
19 y/o striker from Barca with a contract until… pic.twitter.com/Z58JOafZvY
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) August 13, 2024
**A “Special” Talent**
Vitor Roque, born on February 28, 2005, in Timóteo, Minas Gerais, Brazil, was widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in football. His journey began in the youth setup of América Mineiro before he moved to Cruzeiro, where he signed his first professional contract in May 2021.
Roque’s talent quickly became evident, and it wasn’t long before he was making his mark on the pitch. He scored his first professional goal for Cruzeiro in February 2022, just a year after his debut. His performances caught the eye of Athletico Paranaense, who activated his release clause in April 2022, making it the biggest transfer in the club’s history at the time.
At Athletico Paranaense, Roque continued to impress, scoring crucial goals, including a brace against Atlético Mineiro. His goal-scoring prowess and versatility across the forward line made him a key player for the Brazilian club. By the end of 2023, Roque had secured a high-profile move to Barcelona, where he signed a contract until the 2030/31 season, with a staggering €500 million buyout clause.
Despite his recent move to Barcelona, Vitor Roque has found it challenging to establish himself as a regular starter in La Liga. He has made only a handful of appearances, scoring his first goal for Barcelona in January 2024. With limited playing time and fierce competition for places at the Catalan club, Everton see an opportunity to bring the Brazilian talent to Goodison Park.
According to reports, Everton are exploring the possibility of signing Roque, either on a permanent deal or a loan with an option to buy. Barcelona, aware of Roque’s immense potential but also of the need to balance their squad, might be open to letting him leave for the right offer. For Everton, acquiring a player of Roque’s caliber would be a statement of intent, as they look to improve their attacking options and build a team capable of competing higher up the Premier League table.
Roque’s versatility, ability to play across the front line, and his potential to develop into a world-class player make him an attractive prospect for Everton. If the deal goes through, it could be one of the most exciting transfers of the summer for the Merseyside club.
