Athletico Paranaense are likely to cash in on £35 million wonderkid Vitor Roque with Premier League duo Newcastle United and West Ham keen on the so-called ‘new Ronaldo’, technical director Luiz Felipe Scolari tells Globo Esporte.
The likes of Fernandinho, Renan Lodi and Bruno Guimaraes all departed the Arena da Baixada for considerable sums but Roque, while still a month away from his 18th birthday, could soon become the most expensive export in Athletico’s near-100 year history.
Roque’s speed, drive and fearsome finishing ability has led to comparisons with 2002 World Cup winner Ronaldo; O Fenomeno himself insisting that the Brazil U20 international has everything in his power to follow in his golden footsteps.
“He is going to fly so high,” the legendary Ronaldo said of Vitor Roque in 2022.
Ronaldo moved to Europe as a baby-faced teenager nearly 30 years ago. And, with Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, Barcelona and Real Madrid all making contact with his representatives, Roque could be about to receive one hell of an 18th birthday present.
West Ham and Newcastle United among the clubs keen on Brazil wonderkid Vitor Roque
“Vitor will probably be sold,” says Scolari, Ronaldo’s former Selecao coach.
“He’s 17 years old and has a lot to learn on the pitch. But he’s been playing in the Campeonato Brasileiro and the Copa Libertadores since he was 16. He’s a 17-year-old boy with the brain and experience of a 24 or 25-year-old.
“He’s ready. When (a club) comes up with enough money, I think we will sell.”
Saudi-backed Newcastle United are another club to have held initial talks with Roque’s camp. The Magpies are scouring South America for some of the game’s next generation of superstars, and are hoping to bring in Roque after missing out on Endrick de Sousa, Maximo Perrone and Andrey Santos to Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea respectively.
According to Brazilian reporter Vene Casagrande, West Ham also want Roque on loan with an option-to-buy. Athletico Paranaense’s £35 million asking price may be a little rich for Hammers’ blood, however.
“I am of the philosophy that we have to sell our players. If we have the possibility of selling, we sell,” Scolari adds. “Let’s invest, buy others, look for someone good to sign.
“We are a selling club. (We want) a lot of money.”
Vitor Roque scored five goals in 29 games during his debut top flight season in 2022.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
