Report: Everton Prepared to Meet £25m+ Transfer Demands

According to a Spanish newspaper report on Wednesday (21 August, page 4), Everton is facing competition from Sporting CP, FC Porto, and Villarreal, all of whom are willing to pay £25.6 million for Vitor Roque.

Real Betis appears to have made significant progress in their pursuit of the 19-year-old, with Roque open to a move.

However, Barcelona is still considering offers from other interested parties.

Could Everton still be in the race to sign Vitor Roque? Given Roque’s talent, it’s surprising that Barcelona is even considering his departure this summer.

However, the strong transfer interest in him is understandable.

Roque displayed considerable skill during his time with Athletico Paranaense, scoring 28 goals and providing 11 assists in 81 appearances.

However, his move to the Nou Camp has not gone as smoothly as expected.

Despite limited playing time, he has still managed to score twice for Barcelona, and he might be the type of player Sean Dyche is seeking this summer.

Scoring goals has been a persistent issue for Everton, who only outscored Sheffield United in the Premier League last season, despite having Dominic Calvert-Lewin leading the attack.

Calvert-Lewin’s form has been inconsistent, with just seven goals last season, four of which came in the final seven matches.

While those late goals likely saved Everton from relegation, Dyche needs a more reliable striker.

Roque could be that player if he’s given a real opportunity to start and prove himself in the Premier League.