Since the club’s inception, Barcelona have been home to some of Brazil’s finest footballers. Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, and Neymar Jr are just some of the innumerable stars from the football-worshipping nation to have graced the garnet-and-blue colours.
Raphinha is the latest on the long list of Brazilian forwards in Catalonia. However, with Barcelona targetting Vitor Roque as their next big signing, there could be more Samba in the squad next season.
Earlier today, Raphinha spoke to SPORT about Barcelona’s latest transfer target and had nothing but praise for the Atletico Paranaense star’s quality on the field.
“With Vitor Roque, we’re talking about a high-quality footballer, who is showing in Brazil why Barcelona is interested in him and also the Brazilian team.”
In 13 Brasileiro Serie A appearances for his club this season, the 18-year-old has scored seven goals and provided two assists. Raphinha spoke highly of his potential and called the sky the limit for it.
“There is nothing fairer than talking about a great footballer like him, with great projection, a player who has a lot to give. I think he can go a long way in world football.”
Finally, the Blaugrana star highlighted how Roque’s arrival would impact not only the team but also his play on an individual level come next season.
“Roque would help Barça a lot, and also me, who plays on the wing.”
While Barcelona have an agreement in principle over a €45 million move to the club, his registration at the moment appears complicated unless the Catalans make a major player sale.
Joan Laporta recently confirmed that work was in progress with regard to Roque’s arrival and the coming weeks will be critical in that regard.
If the teenager arrives in time for the 2023-24 campaign, he would play as a backup option to Robert Lewandowski. However, his prominence will likely grow as the season progresses.
Talking about whether Roque would replace Lewandowski in the time right away, Raphinha said: “Robert still has a lot of football to give. He had a great season in his first year at Barça, he was the striker of La Liga and if he didn’t score more goals it was only due to lack of luck.”
On the impact Lewandowski has had in his first season at the club, Raphinha added: “What pleasantly surprised me about Lewandowski is to see, after everything he has achieved, his desire to win even more, to win more titles, and to always gives his maximum.”