The president of Brazilian club Athletico Paranaense has admitted they cannot keep top talent Vitor Roque.
Vitor Roque is touted as the next top Brazilian talent with Gazzetta dello Sport claiming interest from Manchester United in late January.
The 17-year-old has scored 14 first team goals for his club already, and there is a race among Europe’s top clubs for his signature.
Manchester United and other English clubs will be able to sign Vitor Roque this summer, after he turns 18 later this month.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loan deals for January 2023
Race for Vitor Roque
Paranaense president Mario Celso Petraglia was quoted by TMW confirming there have been offers.
They are seeking a high fee, and says eventually, they will have to cash in: “There’s a big fight for him, we’ve received offers and calls but no one reaches the figures we’re asking.
“However we can’t keep him, because we can’t pay what European clubs pay.”
The number floated for Vitor Roque has been the release clause of 60 million Euros in his contract, claimed by Gazzetta, currently £52.7 million.
There is high competition for him, with TMW claiming Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are all keeping track. Arsenal are also keen.
Vitor Roque has been featuring recently at the South American under-20 championships, helping Brazil to win the trophy. He now has six goals in nine games at this level.
Manchester United may consider Vitor Roque too expensive at the figures Paranaense are looking for. But with Real Madrid splashing out a similar figure for Endrick, the Brazilian side are entitled to try and get it if they can.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
