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Manchester United, Chelsea 'among clubs to enquire over Barcelona 19-year-old'

Manchester United, Chelsea 'among clubs to enquire over Barcelona 19-year-old'
© Reuters
Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly among the clubs showing an interest in Barcelona striker Vitor Roque.

Manchester United and Chelsea have reportedly enquired about the availability of Barcelona forward Vitor Roque.

The young striker scored 28 goals in 81 appearances for Athletico Paranaense, before he completed a move to Barcelona in January for an initial €30m (£26m) fee.

After making three substitute appearances without scoring, Roque came off the bench to net the winner in a January 1-0 victory over Osasuna.

The 19-year-old then scored the third goal in a 3-1 win against Alaves, before his substitute appearances was cut short by a red card for two bookable offences.

Instead of building upon those two strikes, Roque has struggled to gain regular playing time, having started just two of Barcelona's last 14 games.

Barcelona attacker Vitor Roque celebrates scoring against Osasuna on January 31, 2024© Reuters

Man United, Chelsea enquire about Roque

Since making his most recent start against Cadiz last month, Roque has had to watch on from the bench for each of Barcelona's previous four matches, including the recent 4-2 defeat to Girona.

Although he has spent less than six months with the Blaugrana, there has been a suggestion that Roque could depart to gain regular playing time elsewhere.

According to AS, Man United and Chelsea are among 30 clubs who have enquired about the Brazilian as they look to strengthen their respective forward lines.

With Anthony Martial set to leave at the end of the season, the Red Devils are looking to bring in a new striker to provide cover for Rasmus Hojlund.

Chelsea are keen to add to their forward options of Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku, but there is a belief that they will opt for an established number nine rather than a young player with potential.

Barcelona manager Xavi on March 17, 2024© Reuters

Roque attracting interest from across Europe

Tottenham Hotspur are open to renewing their interest in Roque after losing out to Barcelona in the race to sign the teenager from Athletico Paranaense.

Serie A giants Napoli are also believed to be among the player's admirers, while French club Nice have also been linked with a potential move.

With Xavi seemingly unconvinced by Roque, Barcelona will have to make a decision over his future at the end of the season.

There has been a suggestion that they will look to send him out on loan, but the striker's agent recently revealed that his client wants to stay and play at Barcelona or seek a permanent move elsewhere.

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Written by
Ben Sully

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