Barcelona and Athletico-PR are reportedly advancing talks over a deal worth €40 million for Brazilian whizkid Vitor Roque.

According to Toni Juanmarti, Vitor Roque is a step closer to joining Barcelona. The Blaugrana and Athletico Paranaense have advanced negotiations over a possible deal for the Brazilian whizkid. And the Furacao will be flexible over the mode of the operation, which will be worth €40 million, amid Barcelona’s financial woes.

Vitor Roque has become one of the most in-demand prospects in the world in the last twelve months. The 18-year-old joined Athletico Paranaense from Cruzeiro when very few top clubs knew about him. But he has gradually risen in stature after some impressive displays for the Brazilian outfit.

The Brazilian whizkid then saw his stock skyrocket after Brazil’s triumphant campaign at the Under-20 South American Championships. And the youngster has resumed the club season strongly, scoring once in two outings thus far. Meanwhile, Vitor Roque’s progress has captured the attention of several clubs, including Barcelona.

Barcelona will look to sign a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski in the coming years. While the Blaugrana only signed the Polish striker last summer, he is well into his thirties. So it behoves Barcelona to invest in a young striker who can learn the ropes from Lewandowski before eventually taking over as the first-choice striker. Vitor Roque has thus emerged as a viable target for Barcelona.

Recent reports have pointed to Barcelona holding talks over a possible deal for the Brazilian whizkid. And the 18-year-old might be closing in on joining Barcelona after the latest developments. The report by Toni Juanmarti suggests that discussions between the Blaugrana and Athletico Paranaense are advancing.

The Brazilian club will be flexible over the mode of the operation but will ensure they receive €40 million for Roque. So the base fee can be low to accommodate Barcelona’s financial woes. Alternatively, the two clubs might even agree to an initial loan deal with a purchase option for next year.

But Barcelona will be willing to pay around €40 million, including variables, for Vitor Roque. And it will be interesting to see if the Brazilian whizkid arrives at Spotify Camp Nou this summer. Meanwhile, Athletico Paranaense will be informing other suitors that the teenage sensation is Barcelona-bound.