The transfer of Vitor Roque to FC Barcelona faced significant criticism, with many questioning whether the Brazilian was worth the €30 million (plus additional variables) spent. Arriving midway through the season, he failed to impress Xavi and saw very little playing time, intensifying criticism of the club’s management and Deco’s role in the transfer. Unable to secure a spot on the team, Roque was initially loaned to Betis and ultimately sold by Barcelona. The sporting director managed to sell him back to Brazil for €25.5 million plus €5 million in variables, effectively covering the remaining amortization and nearly recouping the investment while retaining 20% of any future sale.
Since then, Barcelona has been closely monitoring his performance, which has been impressive. With Palmeiras, Vitor Roque scored 20 goals and provided 6 assists in 40 matches this year, a stark contrast to his statistics in Spain (6 goals in 36 appearances with Barcelona and Betis). Given his success, a move away from Palmeiras seems likely, and the player himself has expressed his desire to return to Europe. “My dream is to return to Europe and readjust. If God allows it, I will continue working here at Palmeiras; that’s my current goal… And in the future, I will return to Europe,” he stated while on international duty with Brazil. If sold, Palmeiras will likely aim for a profit, which could ultimately allow Barcelona to benefit from the Vitor Roque deal.
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