Barcelona have announced that they have agreed a deal to sign Athletico Paranaense forward Vitor Roque.

The Catalan giants are currently in the process of putting together a squad capable of successfully defending the La Liga crown that they won in 2022-23.

Inigo Martinez and Ilkay Gundogan have each arrived on free transfers from Athletic Bilbao and Manchester City respectively, and there is an argument that Xavi requires another central striker to compete with Robert Lewandowski.

While such an addition may still materialise, Barcelona have instead committed to paying a considerable transfer fee to secure the services of Roque.

In an effort to ensure that the Brazil international does not move elsewhere, a deal has been finalised for Roque to move to Camp Nou for the start of 2024-25.

Barcelona have revealed that Roque has agreed to pen a six-year contract, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2030-31 campaign.

Furthermore, it is stated that a buy-out clause of €500m (£427m) has been included in his deal in order to fend off any interest in the future.

Although Barcelona have not officially confirmed a transfer fee, Fabrizio Romano claims that Athletico Paranaense will receive a guaranteed €30m (£25.6m), with up to €31m (£26.5m) possible in future add-ons.

Despite being just 18 years of age, Roque is already regarded at Athletico's star man, contributing seven goals and two assists in 13 top-flight fixtures this campaign.

Athletico currently sit in 11th position in the standings, but with just six points separating them to second-placed Flamengo. body check tags ::