It is no secret that Real Madrid have a great scouting network, especially when it comes to Brazilian players. That has helped them discover the likes of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo, while the club recently pulled off an ambitious deal for 16-year-old Palmeiras wonderkid, Endrick, for a transfer package worth up to €72 million when add-ons and taxes are accounted for.
Real Madrid seem to have their eyes on other Brazilian talents as well though and one of them has been dubbed by many as the ‘New Neymar’.
Vitor Roque is a 17-year-old forward and has already made a mark at the senior level for Athletico Paranaense. According to stats from Transfermarkt, he has scored 7 goals and provided 3 assists in 36 appearances for the club while playing 1762 minutes of football in total.
As reported by ge.globo, Roque has been monitored for a few months by Real Madrid, Barcelona and Chelsea, while PSG have asked for information about him. Los Blancos even sent scouts to closely monitor his development. No official proposal has yet reached Athletico Paranaense though and he is believed to have a release clause of around €100m for European clubs.
Real Madrid are eyeing ‘New Neymar’ with a massive release clause
It is safe to say that Roque is very highly rated considering the calibre of the clubs being linked with the youngster.
It remains to be seen if Real Madrid do end up making a move for him or not. If they do, their record of developing Brazilian wonderkids into starters at the club could help Los Blancos in getting a deal over the line.
It remains to be seen how things play out but several other top clubs are interested in Roque as well and it is expected to be a very expensive operation for any club that tries to sign him.