Barcelona keen on summer move for Brazilian prodigy Vitor Roque

Barcelona have identified Athletico Paranaense wonderkid Vitor Roque as one of their top targets for the summer, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Catalans were left disappointed when they lost the transfer race for highly-rated Endrick Felipe, who joined Real Madrid from Palmeiras.

The Blaugrana are now keen on not missing out on another prodigious talent Roque and view his transfer as retaliation for their arch-rivals Madrid snapping up Endrick.

Like Endrick, Roque is a talented prospect who has been touted as the next big thing from Brazil. His move to a top club is around the corner.

He hit the ground running at Paranaense when he signed for them last year, netting seven goals and three assists in all competitions.

The 17-year-old helped his side reach the final of the Copa Libertadores, netting two goals and two assists and making it to the team of the tournament.

Roque is now getting more attention following his exploits with the Brazilian national team in the ongoing South American U-20 Championship, where he has netted four goals in four games.

Barca also hold the edge in the Brazilian’s pursuit as he prefers a move to Camp Nou amid interest from other top clubs.

La Liga’s Financial Fair Play regulations prevented Barca from signing any players in the January transfer window.

They were unable to sign replacements for Memphis Depay, who moved to Atletico Madrid, or injury-hit Ousmane Dembele.

Roque traditionally operates as a centre-forward and would be a perfect back-up for Robert Lewandowski or even become his future successor.