Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Spanish midfielder set to leave Catalan side, Vitor Roque wants Serie A move, and more - August 6, 2024
Barcelona are expected to make some much-needed additions to their squad before the start of the new campaign. The Catalans have already given Hansi Flick the keys to the first-team squad after parting ways with Xavi at the end of last season.
Meanwhile, a Spanish midfielder is all set to leave Camp Nou this summer. Elsewhere, Vitor Roque prefers to move to Serie A. On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from August 6, 2024.
Oriol Romeu set to leave Barcelona
Oriol Romeu is on his way back to Girona on a temporary move this summer, according to journalist Nil Sola (via Barca Universal). The Spanish midfielder arrived at Barcelona from the Gironistes last year, as the club's low-cost replacement for Sergio Busquets.
However, the 32-year-old failed to live up to expectations and dropped down the pecking order as the season progressed. Romeu has been linked with an exit all summer, but it was believed that Hansi Flick wanted to keep hold of the player.
However, it now appears that he is all set to return to the Montilivi this year. Girona have been interested in re-signing their former player for a while and have agreed on a loan move for the Spaniard.
The former Southampton man has already left the Catalan side's pre-season tour of the US to fly back to Spain for his medical. If all goes well, Romeu is likely to complete the move this week.
Vitor Roque wants Serie A move
Vitor Roque wants to move to Italy if he leaves Barcelona this summer, according to SPORT (via Barca Universal). The Brazilian joined the Catalan giants last season with a big reputation and was expected to become Robert Lewandowski's long-term replacement.
However, the 19-year-old failed to impress under Xavi, registering just two goals from 16 appearances, 14 of which were from the bench. Hansi Flick was expected to assess the player during pre-season before making a decision on his future.
However, Vitor Roque has done nothing of repute under the new manager. His poor form, coupled with Pau Victor's explosive rise, could ultimately convince the La Liga giants to offload the Brazilian this summer.
Lazio are apparently interested in the 19-year-old and he is also willing to join the Italian club. However, they are only offering €20m for 50% of the player's rights.
Barcelona have not accepted the proposal, as they want €40m to offload Vitor Roque permanently this year. The player's camp are also adamant that he will not move on a temporary basis.
Jose Mourinho eyeing Ilkay Gundogan
Jose Mourinho wants to take Ilkay Gundogan to Turkey this summer, according to SPORT (via Barca News Network). The German midfielder arrived at Barcelona as a free agent last year following the expiry of his contract with Manchester City.
Gundogan hit the ground running at Camp Nou, establishing himself as a mainstay under Xavi. The 33-year-old registered five goals and 14 assists from 51 games across competitions.
The Catalans would prefer for him to stay as his experience could be key to Hansi Flick's side. However, the La Liga giants could be forced to consider a move owing to their poor finances.
Galatasaray have been eyeing the player for a while and now Fenerbahce have entered the fray. Mourinho took charge of the club this summer and has identified Gundogan as an ideal addition to his squad. Barcelona could allow Gundogan to leave for €15m.