Vitor Roque has said he feels prepared to move to Europe this summer amid reports that the Brazilian wonderkid is wanted by Arsenal, as well as FC Barcelona and Newcastle United.
Speaking to Globo Esporte, the 18-year-old striker revealed that he feels ready to make the leap from South America to Europe, with Roque saying on a move this summer: “I definitely feel prepared to play in Europe. I’m working for it, and I’m focused on getting there as prepared as possible.”
Goal have recently reported that Arsenal are huge fans of the Brazilian youth international, with Mikel Arteta himself approving the north London side to move for the Athletico Paranaense star in the summer transfer window, though the competition is strong for the teenager.
Barcelona and Newcastle are in the race to sign Roque according to Sport, with Chelsea and Real Madrid also in the mix for the South American teenager. And with the striker now claiming he’s ready for a move to Europe, things could soon heat up for Arsenal in their pursuit to land the attacker.
Indeed, Arsenal could look to sign an attacker with Arteta seemingly in the market for a teenage forward based on his interest in Roque, and with the striker now stating he wants a move to Europe, the Gunners will have to move quickly if they’re to beat the likes of Barcelona and Newcastle to the forward’s signature.
With an asking price of €60m (£53m) as per Globo Esporte, Roque could be one of the most exciting moves of the summer window, and for Arsenal, the Gunners could be in a position to take a punt on the Brazilian wonderkid given their current striker situation.
Arsenal must win race to bring Vitor Roque to Europe this summer
Arsenal’s striking options of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah are pretty solid for what the Gunners need, with Leandro Trossard another player who can fill in when needed. Yet with Roque only 18, the teenager could be signed this summer as the long-term option to lead the line.
With Folarin Balogun expected to leave on a permanent deal, Arsenal can immediately replace the England youth international with Roque, who could be an ideal long-term project for Arteta to shape and grow into his perfect striker for Arsenal in the years to come.
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