FC Barcelona has made significant strides to finalize the transfer of forward Vitor Roque from the club to Brazilian side Palmeiras, marking the end of his loan with Real Betis. Negotiations have heated up as both Barcelona and Betis aimed to wrap up the agreement before the Brazilian transfer window closes on February 28, 2025.
Barcelona has received the green light from FIFA, setting the stage for the transfer of Roque, who feels sidelined at the Catalan club. Reports indicate Palmeiras is set to pay €25 million for 80% of Roque’s transfer rights, with an additional €5 million possible based on performance-related clauses.
The deal has encountered some twists, particularly concerning Real Betis, Roque's current loan club. Mundo Deportivo notes Betis, who previously showed interest in signing Pau Victor during the winter transfer window, is seeking additional compensation: they have asked Barcelona for 30% of the transfer rights of winger Ez Abde as part of the agreement. Currently, Betis shares these rights at 50%, with Barcelona poised to relinquish this additional percentage, strengthening Betis’s stake significantly.
The urgency surrounding Roque’s transfer is underscored by Barcelona’s desire to quickly resolve the situation, driven by financial incentives and the player’s limited playing time. With only four substitute appearances made this year, Roque has not been utilized effectively under manager Hansi Flick, who appears to favor players like Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal.
"I am very pleased to confirm the deal with Palmeiras for Vitor. It's been long and detailed, but we are excited for his future there," stated a spokesperson from FC Barcelona, lending insight to the club’s positive outlook surrounding the transfer.
Adding complexity to the negotiation, Real Betis has not only focused on Ez Abde’s transfer rights but is actively pursuing Pau Victor, indicating their continued strategy to fortify their squad. "Real Betis is eager to include Pau Victor as part of this agreement due to our appreciation for his talents," noted a representative from the Andalusian club.
This potential deal for Pau Victor would see him loaned to Betis, with the possibility of them securing him permanently after the upcoming season. Given Pau Victor's limited playing opportunities at Barcelona, both clubs see this move as mutually beneficial.
Barcelona's strategy appears to hinge on their desire to transition effectively within their squad, potentially opening doors for future collaborations with Betis. "This negotiation not only benefits us financially but strengthens ties with Betis for future collaborations," mentioned the Barcelona negotiator, reflecting on the broader strategy behind these moves.
Overall, the conclusion of Vitor Roque's saga is on the horizon. Having left Brazil for Barcelona just over a year ago, he is now poised for another return, marking a full circle of his professional football narrative. The financial elements of this transaction, alongside the player exchanges, signify not only immediate changes for these clubs but also hint at their respective future strategies.
With all parties working diligently to finalize the arrangements, fans of both clubs await the final details, which promise to reshape the dynamics of the players involved and the clubs' upcoming seasons.