Barcelona misfit closing in on exit as two Premier League clubs ramp up negotiations

Vitor Roque’s ordeal at FC Barcelona since he arrived at the club eight months ago could soon be coming to an end.

The 19-year-old striker was signed from Athletico Paranaense but has been a total misfire, having failed to win over the confidence of former manager Xavi Hernandez or the current head coach Hansi Flick.

As such, a departure has been heavily spoken of for the Brazilian international, especially with Barça facing troubles with player registrations.

A meeting was held between Roque’s entourage and Barça director Deco recently following which efforts to find a solution for him have been ramped up.

Roque on his way to the Premier League?

Now, SPORT reports that Vitor Roque could finally be closing in on a departure from Barcelona, with the Premier League likely to be his next destination.

Indeed, two clubs from England – AFC Bournemouth and Everton have asked about the Brazilian and plan to speed up talks to secure the 19-year-old’s signing either on loan or a permanent transfer.

Barcelona, for their part, are focusing on selling Roque permanently and recouping the investment made on his signing. A loan deal is not preferred by the club as they fear his valuation could take a further hit if he underperforms.

Roque has attracted interest from several clubs in Spain, but only on loan deals. Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia have been angling for a permanent transfer but the player has rejected them on multiple occasions already.

As such, England could be his next destination, with Barça maintaining a good relationship with Bournemouth, having only recently sold Julian Araujo to him.

Meanwhile, Everton have a fluid working relationship with Roque’s entourage which could help facilitate a transfer.

The final call could lie with Roque himself but Barcelona hope to ensure that they stand to benefit financially from the deal.