Since Barca had completed their dream signing of the transfer window, Dani Olmo, it had been clear that the club would need sales to register the player. Among the shortlisted players, many had been transferred to other destinations, while Vitor Roque's saga seemed to have no end. However, as per recent sources, the forward has completed his move to Real Betis.
Given the Brazilian forward's poor Barca record, speculations had been growing since the start of the summer transfer window over the player's Barca future. Moreover, analyzing Roque's mediocre display in the US Preseason tour, combined with the club's stressful financial conditions, he was certain to leave the club.
Vitor Roque's saga finally ends as he completes a move to Real Betis
However, his transfer saga didn't end easy, as several European names stood in the race to sign Vitor Roque. From Premier League clubs like Everton and Bournemouth, Portugal's Sporting Lisbon, to La Liga sides Real Sociedad and Real Betis, all were involved in the player's deal sometime or another.
But, analyzing the reports from the last few days, it had become certain that the Barcelona forward would surely end up in La Liga, in Real Betis. While negotiations were ongoing regarding the loan deal of Roque to Betis, reports pointed out that with the clubs preparing the final documents, a move may be announced soon. And the obvious did happen, as Transfer Expert Fabrizio Romano gave the 'here we go' for Roque's move.
🚨🟢⚪️ Vitor Roque to Real Betis, here we go! Brazilian striker will land in Sevilla tonight, plan decided.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 24, 2024
Loan move from Barcelona with details to be clarified soon, as it will include specific clauses.
Vitor arrives tonight and deal will be sealed in the next 24h. pic.twitter.com/PEZM8bzLob
With Vitor Roque being a Real Betis player, reports from Mundo Deportivo highlight some important features of the Brazilian's loan deal. As per reports, FC Barcelona can recall Vitor Roque from his loan spell at Betis at the end of the season if they want to. Moreover, the report mentioned that Real Betis can buy 80% of Vitor Roque's rights for €25M + variables and that Barcelona has reserved a €27.5M buy-back clause.
Analyzing from Barcelona's perspective, Vitor Roque's transfer move would certainly ease the club's struggle to register Dani Olmo. However, they should remain cautious of the player, as Vitor Roque refused to accept a 'fear clause' in his loan contract with Real Betis. He will be available to play against Barcelona and might make Barca icon Rivaldo's claim true.
Overall, FC Barcelona would be satisfied with Roque's Betis move; however, given the no-fear clause, the Blaugrana club should remain cautious given the 19-year-old prodigy's talent.