Barcelona facing potential €25 million setback due to Real Betis’ transfer activities

Barcelona could be facing a significant financial setback following Real Betis’ recent acquisition of Colombian striker Cucho Hernandez for €13 million. 

Indeed, according to Mundo Deportivo, this move may jeopardise Betis’ ability to permanently sign Vitor Roque from Barcelona for €25 million, which the Catalan club had anticipated as part of their financial planning.

On Wednesday, Real Betis officially presented Hernandez as their new signing. The striker, who previously played for Columbus Crew in the United States, has committed to the club until 2030. 

Betis agreed to pay €13 million upfront, along with an additional €1 million in potential variables. This development raises doubts about the future of Roque at Real Betis. 

The Betis option is fading

Betis initially negotiated a purchase option worth €25 million for 80% of the player’s transfer rights. Although they have the option to extend the loan until June 2026, activating the buy clause would then increase to €27.5 million. 

Real Betis might not retain Vitor Roque. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Given the recent investment in Hernandez, it seems unlikely that Betis will proceed with the initial deal for Roque.

The president of Real Betis, Angel Haro, addressed the situation during Hernandez’s unveiling. While he emphasised that it was too early to make definitive statements, he acknowledged the club’s need for more firepower in attack.

“It’s still too early to say. We have to have confidence in Vitor, see how the year ends, we have an open possibility if both parties agree that he will continue… It’s still too early,” he said.

There is one more suitor 

Adding another twist to the story, there have been reports suggesting that Roque attracted interest from Brazilian giants Palmeiras earlier this year. 

Palmeiras were keen on securing a reliable number nine and identified Roque as a prime candidate. Although that move did not materialise during the January window, a renewed offer in the summer could present a tempting option for both the player and Barcelona.

Barcelona must now navigate the uncertainties surrounding Roque’s situation, hoping to secure a positive outcome either through Betis or a potential transfer elsewhere.