In a recent print edition, Mundo Deportivo (21 August, page 4) stated that Everton are facing stiff competition for Barcelona forward Vitor Roque this summer. It has been mentioned that the Toffees would have to rival Sporting CP, FC Porto and Villarreal in the race to land the Brazilian striker in this transfer window.
Roque’s Impressive Rise At The Nou Camp
Roque managed to shine at times for the Spanish club in the previous campaign when he put in a few impressive displays for them in front of the opponent’s goal. The 19-year-old scored two times in 16 matches for Barcelona last season in various competitions.
The Brazilian youngster saw most of his playing opportunities come off the bench which explains why he only averaged 0.9 shots, 0.1 key passes and 0.3 dribbles per game in La Liga. He was tidy when distributing the ball in the final third, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 76.6% in the Spanish first division (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Catalan club will run out in the summer of 2031 which could make it difficult for the Toffees to win the race for his services this month.
Everton Are Facing Stiff Competition For Roque: Is He Worth The Fight?
Roque excels at finding some space for himself to get a few shots in at goal. He has got the eye to play a few decisive passes in the final third and is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet. Roque is primarily a striker but can also serve as a wide player on either flank if required. However, the Brazilian whizkid is still quite raw and would need time to prove his worth at the highest level.
Roque would no doubt add more firepower to Everton head coach Sean Dyche’s frontline. He is already good enough to fight for a regular first-team spot at Goodison Park and could prove to be a success story at the Merseyside club in the long run.
At 19, Roque has the potential to be a future star in European football. He would be well worth the fight, so the Toffees would be wise to get a deal over the line for him before the end of this transfer window.
