Barcelona have confirmed the signing of Brazilian forward, Vitor Roque, from Atletico-PR for a fee of around €40 million ($44m).
The 18-year-old Brazilian penned an eight-year contract with the Catalan club until the end of the 2030-31 season, and he is set to link up with his new teammates next summer.
Roque’s release clause has been set at €500m.
Roque becomes Barca’s third signing this summer following the arrivals of Ilkay Gundogan and Inigo Martinez as free agents after the expiration of their contracts with Manchester City and Athletic Club, respectively.
With Robert Lewandowski turning 35 in August, Barca made finding a backup and potential heir to the Poland striker one of their priorities this summer.
ESPN reported in June that Roque had emerged as their top target. Negotiations, led by sporting director Deco, accelerated soon after.
Roque caught Barca’s attention after starring for the Athletico and Brazil youth teams.
He helped his club reach the final of the Copa Libertadores last season and recently earned his first senior cap for his country.
The teenager has scored 22 goals in 65 appearances for Athletico, including six in his past six games.
