West Ham eye Barcelona’s young striker, met with representatives in 2023

Vitor Roque has been dominating the headlines over the past week following the statements made by his agent over his situation at FC Barcelona.

Roque has barely played since arriving at Barça midway through the campaign, which prompted his agent, Andre Cury, to aim a dig at Xavi over the youngster’s playing time.

Amidst speculations that Roque could be loaned out in the summer, Cury hinted that it was not an option and that the only two acceptable avenues for the teenager were continuing at Barça or a permanent exit.

While Barça are not paying any heed to what was said, Cury’s statements have piqued the interest of several clubs across Europe, and in particular from England.

West Ham United eye Vitor Roque

Indeed, according to London-based outlet Claret&Hugh, West Ham United are interested in signing Vitor Roque from Barcelona in the summer.

The Hammers are understood to be in competition with a number of other Premier League clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham in the race for the teenage striker.

Given that the other suitors could be in a position to offer European football and a better package, West Ham, who will have a new manager next season, will have a big challenge to convince Roque to choose them.

Interest not new

West Ham United’s interest in Vitor Roque is not entirely new. As per the report, the London club were keen on the now-Barcelona forward last year as well.

In fact, there had been a meeting held between the Hammers and the 19-year-old’s representatives to discuss the possibility of a switch.

However, Roque opted to sign for Barcelona, having rejected a plethora of clubs, including West Ham’s London rivals Tottenham.

With the east-London club now back in the hunt for Roque, whether they are capable of convincing the youngster as well as Barcelona with a good offer remains to be seen.