Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly ahead of Barcelona in the race to sign talented youngster Vitor Roque this summer. The Brazilian teenager has been dubbed the 'next Sergio Aguero' and is attracting interest from some of Europe's top clubs.
The Gunners have enjoyed success from signing Brazilian players in the past with Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Jesus all excelling under Mikel Arteta. Sporting director Edu Gaspar will be aware of the upcoming talents from Brazil and Roque looks set to follow in Neymar and Vinicius Junior's footsteps by making a move to Europe this summer.
Chelsea are in need of a new striker ahead of next season given the poor form of Kai Havertz and the lack of faith shown in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. football.london understands Christopher Nkunku is set to complete a switch to Stamford Bridge this summer after agreeing a pre-contract with the Blues.
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This may not stop Chelsea from investing in a move for Roque, given their focus on securing deals for the world's top young talents. MundoDeportivo have reported that the Blues are pressing ahead with plans to sign the 18-year-old striker ahead of next season.
Arsenal are also in the race but Chelsea are thought to be favourites to sign the talented teenager. Athletico Paranaense will look to secure the highest possible fee for Roque this summer as they are now resigned to losing their star striker. This puts Barcelona at a disadvantage to other clubs given their financial difficulties.
Roque has made no secret of his interest in joining Barca, after confirming it would be his 'dream' to move to the Camp Nou earlier this year. In an interview with Sport, the 18-year-old admitted: “It is a dream (to join Barcelona).
"Not only of mine, but also of any player who plays. If it materialises that I end up going to Barca, it will be a great joy for my family and for me. Therefore, I have to continue working hard and hope that everything will materialise.
However, he may not get his wish, as Barcelona have stalled in negotiations with Paranaense, with their financial predicament wreaking havoc again.
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