Report: Barcelona out-of-favour star not considering loan exit in the summer

When Barcelona brought in Vitor Roque in January, very few expected him to become a bench player for next six months.

In fact, many hailed Roque as the ideal long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski – someone who can lead the Barcelona attack in the years to come.

However, as we approach the final phase of the campaign, Roque has proven to be a major flop, failing to even establish himself as a first-team regular at Barça. It has come to a point where his future at Camp Nou could be in doubt.

Indeed, Barcelona are reportedly considering the idea of loaning out young Roque, who has found it difficult to adapt to conditions in Spain.

Loan move not an option for Roque

In the midst of uncertainty over Roque’s future at Camp Nou, Toni Juanmarti has issued an important update.

The Spanish journalist had earlier suggested that Xavi’s continuity could make things more difficult for Roque, in his bid to become a first-team regular at Barcelona.

Will Vitor Roque be loaned this summer? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Now, Juanmarti adds that a loan move is not an option for Roque’s camp despite Xavi being confirmed to continue as the Barcelona boss next season.

It appears the player remains keen on proving himself at Camp Nou despite struggling with minutes during the second half of the campaign.

An open case

Juanmarti suggests the future of Vitor Roque remains open and anything can happen over the course of the next few months.

Barcelona, for their part, certainly do not rule out the idea of loaning out the Brazilian. The potential departure of Roque could go beyond sporting reasons, as Barcelona have also struggled to register players and might require an exit in order to facilitate further registrations.

At the same time, with Lewandowski failing to maintain his high level of performance, next season could indeed be an opportunity for Roque to make an impression.

However, there is also cut-throat competition in the Barça squad, with players such as Ferran Torres, Marc Guiu and Lewandowski all vying for that number nine position.