Chances of Roque joining Barca in August appear unlikely

Athletico Paranaense CEO Alexandre Mattos recently discussed the transfer situation of Vitor Roque with journalist Fabrizio Romano. Mattos clarified that Roque will be joining Barcelona in January next year. According to ‘Globo Esporte’, Athletico Paranaense has decided not to release the young Brazilian striker this year, and his move to Barcelona has been agreed for the following year, with the possibility of arriving in the January transfer window.

During the interview, Alexandre Mattos confirmed the reports and stated that there is no chance of Roque leaving to join Barcelona in August. He emphasized that Roque will depart in January as previously arranged with Barcelona, and they need him for the final 20 games and to secure qualification for the Copa Libertadores in 2024.

Barcelona had attempted to bring forward Roque’s arrival in Spain this summer, but Athletico Paranaense rejected their request. Despite being eliminated from the Copa Libertadores by Bolivar, the Brazilian club wants the 18-year-old striker to assist them in qualifying for the upcoming season.

Source: [Fabrizio Romano’s tweet](https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1689389710051844097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)