Barcelona considering Premier League forward as potential alternative to player linked with Chelsea move - Reports
La Liga giants Barcelona have reportedly identified Chelsea ace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a potential alternative to Athletico Paranaense wunderkind Vitor Roque. Roque has also been linked with the Blues and Premier League leaders Arsenal.
According to Mundo Deportivo’s Roger Torello, Barcelona have identified the Brazilian forward as a priority for the summer. They wish to bring him in while Robert Lewandowski is still firing on all cylinders, hoping to give Roque the opportunity to learn from the Pole. Eventually, Barca expect Roque to replace the 34-year-old.
The Blaugrana have reportedly held positive talks with Roque’s camp, but they cannot make a move for him unless they address their Financial Fair Play issues. It has been claimed that Xavi’s side need to shave a cool €200 million off their wage bill to register new players.
Upon reduction in wages, they're set to prioritise the registration of Gavi, Ronald Araujo and Sergi Roberto. Only after registering their current players will they make new signings. If they cannot solve their FFP issues, they cannot sign Roque this summer. In that case, they could look to bring Aubameyang back to the Camp Nou as a free agent.
The former Arsenal striker spent six months at the Camp Nou before being sold to Chelsea in the summer. The Gabonese forward has struggled at Stamford Bridge and reportedly wants to return to Catalonia. Aubameyang is well-liked by fans and staff and is reportedly prepared to take a wage cut to rejoin Barca.
Meanwhile, the west Londoners’ hopes of signing Roque received a boost after the teenager declared that he has no preferred destination (via football.london). The 18-year-old initially said that he felt ready to play for Barcelona but has now clarified that he has not yet chosen his next club.
Roque, who is the youngest goalscorer in the Copa Libertadores, has played 40 games for Athletico Paranaense, scoring ten times and providing three assists. His deal expires in June 2027, and his release clause is set at £52.5 million (via the Sun).
Chelsea keeping tabs on Barcelona winger Raphinha
Despite bringing in Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke in the summer, the Blues are reportedly interested in Barca right winger Raphinha.
According to journalist Simon Phillips, Raphinha was close to joining the Pensioners before his switch to Catalonia, and many at Stamford Bridge still like the former Leeds United winger.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Phillips said:
“Yeah, this is one to watch for sure. I was told months ago that Chelsea were still keeping tabs on Raphinha, even after he joined Barcelona. He was fairly close to joining Chelsea at one point before Barcelona came in. Many at Chelsea still like him.”
After a slow start at the Camp Nou, Raphinha has finally found his groove. The Brazilian winger has played 38 games this season under Xavi, scoring nine times and claiming nine assists.