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Manchester United have reportedly seen a bid for striker Vitor Roque rejected by Barcelona.
A report published by The Peoples Person early last month claimed United were interested in a shock loan move for the struggling Barcelona star.
Roque arrived at the Camp Nou from Atletico Paranaense in January in a previously agreed transfer that could potentially reach €61 million in due course.
However, Roque did not have a very comfortable time with the Blaugrana. Under Xavi, the Brazilian striker has been allowed just 319 minutes in 14 La Liga appearances. He started just twice and at one stage of the campaign was completely unused for four consecutive games.
Roque’s situation and lack of playing time prompted an angry response from his agent, who accused Xavi of mistreating his client. The agent also hinted that Roque is planning a summer date.
Links with United resurfaced when it was subsequently suggested that Barcelona would be interested in offering him to Erik ten Hag’s side in exchange for Mason Greenwood.
A new report now claims that United made a bid for Roque, but the offer was quickly rejected by Barca, who are believed to want more money.
United are understood to have made their “first offer” for the 19-year-old. The Red Devils “have not lost interest” in the player and were prepared to part with €35 million in an attempt to lure him to Old Trafford.
However, Barcelona president Joan Laporta rejected the proposal as he is keen for the Catalan outfit to return most of the money they paid to get him from Athletico Paranaense.
New Barca boss Hansi Flick has apparently told the club to “study” any loan offers they receive for Roque.
It is unclear whether United would be open to such an arrangement.
Meanwhile, Roque seems keen to stay on Barca’s books and prove himself in Flick’s eyes. It was recently announced that he cut his vacation short and has already returned to Barcelona to prepare for next season.
📍 Vitor Roque is already in Barcelona. The Brazilian cut short his holiday and went to Ciudad Deportiva this morning.
🇧🇷 The Brazilian wants to show his qualities to Flick and have a good pre-season with the Barca team, as reported @RogerTorello. pic.twitter.com/nK4Cwpf6gQ
— Carlos Monfort (@monfortcarlos) June 14, 2024
Apart from Roque, other talismans mentioned to be on United’s radar include Joshua Zirkzee (Bologna), Victor Osimhen (Napoli), Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting Lisbon), Matheus Cunha (Wolves) and Ivan Toney (Brentford).
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