Barcelona fans are about to get more disappointment this season, in what looks like a very bad season for them. Vitor Roque was finally announced as their new signing for the winter after the Catalans were struggling to score goals and win games.
It was thought that the young Brazilian talent would be a breath of fresh air and provide much-needed competition to the poorly performing Robert Lewandowski. But it looks like even his arrival would not be that easy.
Barcelona will face potential registration problem in summer
Barcelona decided to bring in Vitor Roque early this season, by at least six months forward. He was already signed for a fee of €30 million, along with €31 million in various variables, from Brazilian club Athletico Paranaense. But he was scheduled to arrive in the summer, but the Catalans have decided to bring him in early due to a number of reasons, with a drought of goals their main reason.
But the club is already facing problems about potentially registering him in the summer. Roque was only brought in in the current window because star midfielder Gavi was injured. La Liga rules meant that the club could bring in someone else due to the injury, while the new player’s or players’ salary space must take up at least 80 percent of Gavi’s salary.
Barça will not register Roque in the summer without selling many players. He is currently on loan😯#FCBarcelona #Barça #Roque pic.twitter.com/HFVIo9bg0i
— RatingBet (@rating_bet) December 29, 2023
Using the absence of Gavi, Barcelona have been able to register Vitor Roque in the current window. But Gavi will eventually return next summer, which means the club will be in a dilemma, considering their already weakened financial state.
The Catalans will need to free up more salary space in the region of €20 million to register the Brazilian forward next summer. With the sale of Barca Studios still being unpaid, they are facing problems in creating more salary space. With new player contracts also being approved, they are in for a mess next summer, and definitely need to make some big player sales.
Potential debut date for Vitor Roque
Vitor Roque has already completed his medical and has arrived in Barcelona as well. The club itself announced his signing on their social media accounts.
He is expected to be formally presented as a player next Wednesday, and much excitement about his debut is building up. He has also begun training already, having his first session with his new teammates already. Next Thursday will see Barcelona start the new year in a La Liga match against Las Palmas, and many expect Roque to play in the match.
Debut training for Roque 🐆 pic.twitter.com/2RMPVAGVqW
— Shay Lugassi (@Shlugassi) December 29, 2023
But according to Sport, he may make his debut later. He is expected to instead make his debut against Barbastro in the Copa del Rey competition. Therefore, his league debut could take until 21st January, as the Spanish Super Cup will also take place after the Copa del Rey match.
For now, Barcelona prepare for their next game against Las Palmas on Thursday, while Vitor Roque will have to see if he can make his debut then.