Barcelona caught in three-way transfer tangle over €20m-rated forward through no fault of their own

Barcelona loanee Vitor Roque has become the focal point of a complex transfer scenario involving his current loan club, Real Betis, and Brazilian side Palmeiras. Palmeiras are eager to secure Roque’s services before the South American transfer window closes on February 28, aiming to streamline the negotiations by excluding Real Betis from the equation and dealing directly with Barcelona.

Roque’s journey began with a high-profile transfer to Barcelona from Athletico Paranaense in January 2024, costing the Catalan club €30 million upfront, with an additional €31 million in potential add-ons. Despite the significant investment, Roque found it challenging to secure regular playing time at Barcelona, largely due to the presence of established striker Robert Lewandowski. This led to a loan move to Real Betis in August 2024, intended to provide the young forward with more first-team opportunities.

At Real Betis, Roque’s performance has been a mix of promise and inconsistency. He managed to score six goals in all competitions during the first half of the season, showing glimpses of his potential. However, his form has dipped since December, and recent disciplinary issues, such as forgetting his passport before a match against Gent, have raised concerns. The arrival of Colombian striker Cucho Hernández in January 2025 has further intensified competition for the forward positions at Betis, casting doubt on Roque’s future with the club.

Palmeiras, observing Roque’s situation, have expressed a strong interest in bringing the striker back to Brazil. They propose a direct negotiation with Barcelona, hoping Real Betis will relinquish their loan agreement without demanding financial compensation. From Palmeiras’ perspective, Betis would benefit from removing Roque’s wages from their payroll, especially given his recent decline in form and the increased competition within the squad.

The original loan agreement between Barcelona and Real Betis included a one-year term with an option to extend for another season. Additionally, Betis holds a purchase option of €25 million for 80% of Roque’s economic rights at the end of each season. This structure complicates Palmeiras’ pursuit, as Betis would need to forgo their negotiated rights to facilitate a direct transfer between Barcelona and Palmeiras.

Financial considerations play a significant role in this tri-party negotiation. Barcelona aims to recoup their initial investment in Roque, seeking a transfer fee that aligns with the €30 million they paid, excluding the unpaid add-ons. If Betis insists on financial compensation to release Roque from his loan, it could deter Palmeiras, who may not be willing to meet such demands. This financial impasse could ultimately block the transfer, leaving Roque in a state of uncertainty.

Despite these challenges, Palmeiras remains optimistic about reaching an agreement. The club maintains a positive relationship with Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, stemming from his previous role as a player agent and intermediary. This rapport could prove advantageous in navigating the complexities of the transfer and finding a mutually beneficial resolution for all parties involved.

The situation is further complicated by Real Betis’ recent acquisition of Cucho Hernández for €13 million. This significant investment may impact Betis’ financial flexibility and their ability to exercise the purchase option for Roque. If Betis decides not to pursue a permanent deal for Roque, it could open the door for Palmeiras to negotiate directly with Barcelona, provided Betis agrees to terminate the existing loan arrangement without additional financial demands.

As the February 28 transfer deadline approaches, time is of the essence. Palmeiras is keen to bolster their squad ahead of the new season and views Roque as a valuable addition. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the involved parties can navigate the financial and contractual hurdles to facilitate the transfer.

For Roque, this period represents a pivotal moment in his career. The young forward has faced challenges adapting to European football, and a return to Brazil could provide a platform to rebuild his confidence and showcase his talents. However, the uncertainty surrounding his immediate future may also impact his development and mental well-being.

Barcelona, on the other hand, must weigh their options carefully. Recouping their investment in Roque is a priority, but they must also consider the player’s development and potential future contributions. Facilitating a move to Palmeiras could be beneficial if it ensures regular playing time for Roque and a favorable financial outcome for Barcelona.

Real Betis’ position is equally complex. The club must assess whether retaining Roque aligns with their sporting objectives, especially after investing in Cucho Hernández. Releasing Roque could alleviate wage expenses and allow the club to focus on integrating their new signing into the squad.

In conclusion, the transfer saga of Vitor Roque underscores the intricate nature of modern football negotiations, where multiple stakeholders with varying interests must find common ground. The resolution of this situation will require flexibility, open communication, and a willingness to prioritize both the player’s career trajectory and the financial health of the involved clubs.

As the deadline looms, all eyes will be on Barcelona, Real Betis, and Palmeiras to see how they navigate this complex scenario. The outcome will not only impact Roque’s career but could also set a precedent for future multi-party transfer negotiations in the football world.