Barcelona are set to loan forward Vitor Roque to Real Betis before the end of the transfer window, with the Brazilian unlikely to feature much under Hansi Flick. The 19-year-old has given the green light for a move to Los Verdiblancos.
Sporting Director Deco had in fact accepted an offer from Sporting CP for Roque to leave permanently, but Betis managed to convince the player that the Benito Villamarin was the best place for him. The two clubs are now hashing out the details, although it appears agreed he will move to Betis. Roque’s loan could be for two seasons, says Fabrizio Romano.
⚪️🟢🇧🇷 Real Betis want to get Vitor Roque deal done on Thursday.
Verbal agreement almost done with Barça on loan move with clubs still in talks about clauses and details… as loan could be valid until 2026, two years.
Vitor’s decision is already clear, he wants Betis move. pic.twitter.com/kqqJjTbBGn
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 21, 2024
The Italian transfer journalist has told Caught Offside that Roque rejected an offer from Al-Hilal earlier this summer. While Lazio also considered a move for him, they ultimately did not open talks for with Barcelona. Roque’s decision to stay in Spain was the decisive factor, and Romano also explained that it keeps his future at Barcelona alive.
Breaking: Andreas Christensen doesn't close the door to a departure as long as he receives an offer that matches his aspirations. @RogerTorello
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) August 22, 2024
As things stand, the Roque deal has become a source of embarassment for Barcelona. The club brought forward his move by six months, and barely gave him a chance to prove himself, before deciding he was expendable. Given their financial situation, the Catalan side cannot afford to be spending €30m on players they may change their mind on so quickly – they will be hoping that Roque returns with his confidence restored by Manuel Pellegrini.
