SUMMER TRANSFER: Arsenal interested in signing 17-year-old South American striker

Arsenal sent scouts to watch Vitor Roque. The London giants are on the case of U20 Brazil international, who is also on the list of Barcelona. The €60m-rated striker could move out of Brazil in the summer as a transfer battle heats up in the background.

The 17-year-old centre-forward is stirring some big pots in Europe with his displays for Athletico Paranaense as a transfer-battle brews in the background. Many top teams are keen on the €60m-rated striker ahead of the next window, as the Brazilian centre-forward turns 18 by the end of February.

Brazilian rules prevent footballers under 18 from leaving the country for a club abroad. European teams have been on the case of many teenagers from the country. Recently, Real Madrid tied up a €60m deal for Palmeiras teenager Endrick, who will only move to Spain after he turns 18.

Paranaense have a €100m release clause in the South American centre-forward’s deal, although they would do a deal for far less. A bid of €60m could suffice, although teams could look to pay a lot less. Some reports suggested the Brazilian side could even accept offers over €40m.

Arsenal have good contacts in Brazil, thanks to their technical director Edu Gaspar. The London giants executive has already registered an interest in the 17-year-old striker. While Barcelona are the front-runner, a huge transfer battle for Roque could emerge in the coming months, as the Brazilian is keen to move out.