How Gavi’s long-term injury will allow Barcelona to sign Vitor Roque in January

Barcelona sporting director Deco made it abundantly clear after last weekend’s LaLiga draw against Rayo Vallecano that the club’s priority in the January transfer window is taking Vitor Roque to Catalonia. “We’re putting our faith in him,” the former Portugal international said. AS has now learned the deal to sign the young Brazilian earlier than originally planned is all but done.

Barça are current dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s of the agreement, which is 99% complete in the eyes of both LaLiga and Athletico Paranaense, the 18-year-old’s current club. Once the finishing touches have been finalised, La Blaugrana should be given the go-ahead to register the striker, who they hope will bolster their attack for the most crucial part of the season.

Vitor Roque to take Gavi’s place on Barcelona roster

Barcelona had to fulfil a number of finance-related conditions set by LaLiga, but the club will now de-register long-term injury victim Gavi, freeing up 80% of his salary. That means they will have space on their wage bill to register Vitor Roque, at least for the next six months. To be able to register both players for 2024-25, they will have to free up more funds elsewhere.

Barça won’t pay extra for January transfer

Athletico Paranaense, meanwhile, are carefully reviewing the terms of the deal they agreed with Barça in the summer to make sure there would no legal ramifications if the transfer is moved forward. The reigning LaLiga champions had been due to sign the teenager in June but aren’t prepared to pay an additional free to speed up his arrival.