Barcelona decided not to sell the striker this summer, exploring the loan option instead
Vitor Roque had a very difficult first seven months at Barcelona. He struggled to adapt to Spanish football during the second half of last season, which led to Xavi Hernandez not counting on him for several important games. Despite the change of management this summer, their fortunes have not changed.
Ibrahim Balde is on trial at Barça Atlètic. He is a central defender born in 2004 in Ivory Coast. @FCBarcelonaB
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) August 10, 2024
Deco spent weeks trying to identify the best way to move forward with Roque. It is highly unlikely that he will stay at Barcelona at least for the 2024-25 season – the club wanted a loan to help him adapt to European football, while the player and his entourage preferred a sale (which would have also helped with Financial Fair Play).
The two parties are now closer to reaching a consensus, after a meeting on Saturday. Ace for SportThe decision was made that no sale would take place – unless Roque changed his mind to go to Saudi Arabia. Instead, a loan departure is the option being explored, with a move to another La Liga club the most likely outcome.
Realistically, this is the best decision for all parties. Roque can leave the spotlight that Barcelona shines so brightly, while still developing in Spanish football. It remains to be seen which club he will end up at, if he does indeed move away from Can Barca.
