Atlético de Madrid have had to say goodbye to one of the signings that seemed promising to reinforce the forward line and accompany Alexander Sorloth. Vitor Roque has finally been loaned to Real Betis, in an operation that has deviated from the initial expectations of the team managed by Diego Simeone.
FC Barcelona, the owner of Vitor Roque's transfer, has made the player's loan to Betis official. The agreement establishes that the Brazilian will play for Betis until June 30, 2025, with an option to extend his loan for an additional season. This operation includes a contract in which Betis assumes the player's salary and reserves a right to buy. The purchase option is set at 25 million euros for 80% of the player's transfer, plus possible additional variables.
An option that was considered
From the start of the transfer market, Vitor Roque was an attractive option for Atlético de Madrid. The idea of having a young and talented striker as a complement to Sorloth fit in with Simeone's plans, who had shown interest in him. However, Betis moved ahead and closed the loan of the striker.
Roque's loan to Betis also includes a "fear" clause that, in principle, will prevent the striker from facing Barcelona in matches against the Catalan side. However, the player himself decided not to accept this condition, which will allow him to play against Barcelona in the season's clashes. This decision not only reflects the player's ambition, but also the flexibility in the negotiations that have been given in this operation.
Vitor Roque, 19, arrived at Barcelona a year ago with the expectation of joining the first team in the 2024-2025 season, but his arrival was brought forward to last winter. During his half-season with the Blaugrana club, he participated in 16 matches, scoring two goals. These goals were crucial in important victories for Barcelona, demonstrating his ability to make the difference.
Betis takes the lead
Betis, for their part, are looking to take advantage of this opportunity to develop the young striker and allow him to gain experience in the Spanish league. The loan will offer Roque the chance to continue his progression and adaptation to European football.
For Simeone and Atlético de Madrid, the decision not to close the signing of Roque means that the club will have to look for other alternatives to strengthen its attack. Competition in the transfer market remains high, and the Argentine coach will have to adapt his plans according to the new circumstances. The arrival of new players to Atlético will be key to maintaining the team's competitive level in the season.