Barcelona are set to part ways with Brazilian forward Vitor Roque who is finally set to join Palmeiras, bringing an early end to his loan spell at Real Betis.
Despite arriving in Spain as one of the brightest youngsters in Brazilian football, Roque has failed to make the cut at Camp Nou. His lack of minutes saw him shipped to Real Betis this season on a loan deal.
However, Journalist Gerard Romero has confirmed that the Palmeiras has secured his signature, with Barcelona receiving a guaranteed €25.5 million, along with an additional €5 million in potential add-ons.
This puts an end to the drama involved in the transfer. With Roque still officially on loan at Betis, Barcelona needed approval from multiple parties to proceed.
Vitor Roque celebrates a goal for Real Betis. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Barcelona received clearance from Betis, they encountered another hurdle. La Liga, along with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), raised legal concerns about the move.
According to their regulations, Barcelona could not sell the player directly while the transfer window was closed. The club was required to re-register him, even if temporarily before they could officially complete the sale.
Faced with these complications, Barcelona sought assistance from FIFA and UEFA to push the deal through. After FIFA granted approval, the club swiftly proceeded with the necessary paperwork to finalise Roque’s departure to Palmeiras.
With Barcelona yet to recover from their financial crisis, the sale of Roque for €25.5 million will serve as a huge financial boost.
Meanwhile, Roque will look forward to a fresh start in Brazil, having failed to fulfill his potential in Spanish football.
