For many, FC Barcelona is a dream team because so many celebrities consider the Blaugrana club to be the best in football. One of the most sought-after names in European football is still the Catalan giants. Barcelona’s timeless philosophy and rich history have made them relevant even in modern times.
Moreover, despite their well-documented economic hurdles, they continue to prosper in transfer windows. In the latest summer window, they confirmed the agreement to sign one of Brazil’s most electrifying talents, Vitor Roque.
The 18-year-old Athletico Paranaense striker is seen by many as the future of Brazilian football. However, as he continues his recovery from an injury sustained not too long ago, he has decided to talk about Barça.
In an exclusive interview with Mundo Deportivo, Roque was asked several questions by the Spanish outlet. One of the primary things that were talked about were the Barcelona players who initiated conversation first with the new Brazilian addition.
Roque confirmed that it was none other than Uruguayan international Ronald Araujo. Already a Barcelona captain, the central defender showcased his leadership and responsibility to welcome Barça’s latest addition. As per Roque, it went about like this:
“Before the deal was closed, Araujo called me. He first sent a message to Canobbio – a Uruguayan teammate of mine at Paranaense – and told [ me through ] Canobbio to come to Barça: ‘Come to Barça, come, come play with us.’”
He also stated later that Brazilian countryman Raphinha was the second to send him a message. Giving Roque a signal of confidence, Raphinha showcased further hospitality to the 18-year-old before he has even arrived:
“Raphinha also sent me a message. He said they were waiting for me and they were eager to play with me. He assured me that they would help me adapt well once I arrived.”
Understandably, Deco and Xavi Hernandez were also among those to welcome him. Set to arrive for a fee of around €30 million fixed alongside an additional €31 million in variables, Roque is Barça’s biggest gamble at a point in time where they hardly have the funds to make such a transfer happen.
However, they have agreed terms with both Paranaense and the player, and now await his arrival. Either in January or the summer of 2024, Vitor Roque’s arrival date is not yet confirmed but within the next two windows, the Brazilian will undoubtedly be an FC Barcelona player.