Manchester United are reportedly among the clubs interested in signing Barcelona striker Vitor Roque on loan next season.
Barcelona signed the 19-year-old in January from Athletico Paranaense in a deal worth £34million, bringing forward plans for him to arrive in the summer after Gavi’s season-ending injury opened up a space for them to register him in the squad.
That situation will be complicated again in the summer however with his initial struggles in the Barcelona first-team prompting the club to consider a loan move for him next season.
The Brazilian has made 13 appearances since arriving in Spain – just two of those from the start – having scored two goals.
‘We will sit down to see what is best for each player,’ Xavi said this week. ‘It’s not easy to come from Brazil, to adapt at 18, to make a difference at Barca.
‘He needs time, minutes, and maybe more confidence. He is capable of playing for Barca for a long time. At the end of the season, we will decide.’
Mundo Deportivo report a number of clubs have now contacted Roque’s representatives over a temporary switch, including United.
Napoli, Nice and Lyon are also monitoring the situation along with Sevilla and Real Betis who are interested in keeping him in Spain.
United were thought to be tracking Roque prior to his move to Barcelona, reportedly putting in a late offer last July when Barcelona initially agreed their transfer.
While a loan swich is being considered at the club, the report adds the player is eager to keep fighting for his spot at the Camp Nou.
United’s problems up top have been well-documented this season with Rasmus Hojlund their only available centre forward for much of the season.
Anthony Martial has not played since December and is set to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Hojlund, a £72million signing from Atalanta last summer, has scored a respectable 14 goals in his first season in English football but another option up top is thought to be on United’s list of targets.
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