Man Utd ‘hold meeting’ with Brazil wonderkid Chelsea and Arsenal want

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Manchester United are hoping to beat Chelsea, Arsenal and Barcelona to the signing of highly-rated Brazilian prospect Vitor Roque, according to reports. Red Devils officials have apparently already held meetings with the striker’s entourage ahead of a possible summer transfer battle. 

Roque is one of Brazil’s most exciting young starlets and has already made his senior debut aged only 18. Now, the Athletico Paranaense ace is expected to be the subject of strong transfer competition among Europe’s biggest clubs. 

Having turned 18 in February, Roque is now allowed to depart South America for Europe. And his representatives have apparently been discussing moves with officials from the top teams in England and Spain. 

Reports in Brazil suggest that Roque’s agents have been on a tour of Europe’s biggest clubs. Their first stop was apparently England, with United granted a meeting. 

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According to Brazilian outlet Globo, they also met with key figures at fellow Premier League sides Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, West Ham and Aston Villa. The report adds that there have been no official bids made for the prolific attacker but two English clubs have supposedly made verbal promises to make offers. 

Spanish giants Barca are said to be the favourites for Roque’s signature and will rival those two clubs with a bid imminently. The La Liga champions-elect were next on the representatives’ tour, with the agents apparently keen to learn about the ‘Barca project’ and how their client would fit into the club’s plans. 

Roque came to prominence at the U20 South American Championship earlier this year, scoring eight goals for Brazil. He then made his senior international debut in March. 

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Speaking about a move to Europe last month, Roque said: “I definitely feel prepared to play in Europe. I’m working for it, and I’m focused on getting there as prepared as possible.”

United’s interest comes with Erik ten Hag desperate to sign an elite centre forward in the summer transfer window. Wout Weghorst was acquired on loan from Burnley as a cheap stop-gap following Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure in November, but the Dutchman’s performances have been criticised. 

The Red Devils have been linked with several top strikers. United could attempt to lure Tottenham icon Harry Kane to Old Trafford, with the England captain seemingly unlike to sign a new contract with Spurs any time soon. 

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