In a surprising twist, FC Barcelona is mulling over the possibility of promoting 18-year-old striker Vitor Roque from Brazil to their first-team squad as early as January, according to the club’s Director of Sport, Deco.

Initially, Barcelona had secured the young forward’s services with the intention of integrating him into the first-team squad for the 2024-2025 season. However, Deco, in an interview with El Mundo Deportivo newspaper, hinted that this timeline could be accelerated if the club manages to meet La Liga’s financial fair play requirements. Follow your favourite football team with attractive La Liga odds from Nextbet. 

Deco stated, “We don’t know yet if we can bring him or not, but if we can bring him in January, he would be to join the team.”

Despite his tender age, Vitor Roque has already left a significant mark in the world of football. He has netted an impressive 27 goals in 77 appearances for Athletico Paranaense in Brazil. Currently sidelined due to an ankle injury, Roque’s recovery progress is being closely monitored.

Deco assured, “The club’s doctors are in contact with those of Paranaense. I know that he is recovering well, that he is fine and that he will return to training soon.” He emphasized that Roque possesses the qualities required to play for a club of Barcelona’s stature.

“As well as technical quality, he has to have a lot of personality. He is a brave player, who doesn’t feel pressure, and that is good because Barcelona is a tough club to play for,” Deco commented.

While acknowledging that Roque is still in the early stages of his career, Deco expressed confidence in the young talent’s ability to adapt quickly and face the challenges that come with representing Barcelona, even at such a tender age. The prospect of Vitor Roque joining Barcelona’s ranks has ignited excitement among fans and the football community alike. Get the latest updates from the world of football only on Nextbet Sports.