Soccer Football - Brasileiro Championship - Athletico Paranaense v Goias - Arena da Baixada, Curitiba, Brazil - November 2, 2022 Goias' Yan Souto and Reynaldo in action with Athletico Paranaense's Vitor Roque REUTERS/Rodolfo Buhrer
Newcastle United have reportedly made an inquiry over the possibility of signing Athletico-PR striker Vitor Roque in the summer.
The Lowdown: More firepower needed?
Newcastle have struggled for goals recently, with just nine scored in their last nine games in total over all competitions.
Chris Wood was allowed to go to Nottingham Forest on loan in the January transfer window, casting his long-term future at St. James’ Park into doubt, while both Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson have suffered with injuries this season.
Thus, they may look for another striker this summer in order to help out the frontline.
The Latest: Roque inquiry
According to GOAL, the Tynesiders are one of five clubs to have made an inquiry for Roque, with Arsenal, Chelsea, PSG and FC Barcelona in the mix for his signature.
However, Athletico-PR are reluctant to let the 17-year-old leave this summer for less than €60m (£53m).
The Verdict: Another exciting target
The North East club are building an exciting group of young talent with the arrivals of Garang Kuol and Harrison Ashby in January, and Roque would certainly add to that.
Likened to the great strikers of Luis Suarez and Ronaldo, the latter has expressed how much he rates his Brazilian countryman in the past, as Roque has scored six goals and made a further two assists in 10 caps for Brazil’s U20s (Transfermarkt).
Hailed as having ‘very impressive‘ upper body strength and balance by journalist David Cartlidge, he should be able to cope with the demands of the Premier League despite his tender years, and would be ready to make an impact and grow with the rest of the squad.
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