Barcelona star stripped of squad number amid exit rumors - Reports
Barcelona forward Vitor Roque will no longer wear the No. 19 jersey amid rumors of a potential exit this summer. The Brazilian could reportedly receive offers from the Middle East this window.
According to SPORT, a decision regarding the 19-year-old's future will be made at the end of the pre-season, although the club are already willing to hear offers for the player.
The Blaugrana signed Roque in the January transfer window for a reported €30 million fee from Brazilian outfit Club Athletico Paranaense. Former Barcelona manager Xavi, who has been replaced by Hansi Flick, rarely utilized the 19-year-old's talents in the second half of the 2023-24 campaign.
Roque only made two starts under Xavi last term, amassing just over 350 minutes in 16 appearances. It seemed clear that the Brazilian forward was not a part of Xavi's plans and there have been rumors of an exit this summer.
Barcelona have announced on their official website that Lamine Yamal will now don the No.19 jersey, previously worn by Roque since his arrival at the Nou Camp. The 16-year-old wonderkind had a stellar and triumphant Euro 2024 campaign with Spain and the club's long-term future seems centered around him.
The Blaugrana are reportedly keen on signing Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams, who combined excellently with Yamal to help Spain become European champions. The club are said to be working on signing Joao Felix permanently as well after his loan spell last season.
With the likes of Ferran Torres, Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha already on their books, the Blaugrana could be looking to offload Roque this summer.
Barcelona sporting director holds meeting with Nico Williams' agent to discuss contract terms - Reports
Barcelona sporting director Deco attended a meeting with Nico Williams' agent Felix Tainta in Zaragoza on Wednesday (17 July), according to Jijantes (via GOAL).
Nico Williams was in exceptional form for Athletic Bilbao last season, scoring eight goals and providing 19 assists across competitions. The 21-year-old managed to replicate that form at the Euros as well, playing an instrumental role in Spain's triumph.
He contributed two goals and an assist for La Roja in Germany, scoring in the final against England. The talented left-winger has attracted interest from Europe's elite outfits, including Chelsea and Arsenal.
However, the Blaugrana seem to be in pole position to secure Williams' signature in light of Deco's meeting with his agent. They have reportedly discussed contract terms ahead of a potential move to Barcelona this summer.