Man Utd aim to beat Barcelona with SHOCK bid for wonderkid

Tom Hancock

• Updated: 4 Jul 2023 06:59 BST
• 4 min read

Manchester United have emerged as surprise contenders to sign Brazilian starlet Vitor Roque – who is a top target for Barcelona.

The Athletico Paranaense forward has already been capped by his country at senior level, making his debut back in March – just a month after turning 18.

Vitor Roque is thought to be a top target for Barca, while Arsenal have previously been linked with the former Cruzeiro player.

MORE: Osimhen breaks silence on future amid Man Utd and Chelsea interest

Now, according to Mundo Deportivo, Man Utd have entered the race for the teenage sensation as they look to bolster their attacking options for next season – which sees them return to the Champions League.

And, while Vitor Roque is unlikely to be the instant solution to United’s pressing need for a new number nine, he looks to have immense potential.

He’s scored 15 goals in 29 appearances in all competitions during the 2023 Brazilian season, accounting for seven of Athletico Paranaense’s 18 league goals so far this term.

MORE: Laporta admits Barcelona STILL owe Messi money

Who will be Man Utd’s first summer signing?

United continue to be linked with a number of exciting strikers from around Europe – among them Harry Kane, Victor Osimhen and Randal Kolo Muani.

Erik ten Hag and co. also appear keen on Rasmus Hojlund – the Danish prodigy who has been dubbed ‘the next Erling Haaland’ – and are said to be close to reaching Atalanta’s valuation of the 20-year-old.

There have been no new faces through the door at Old Trafford yet this summer, but one big name has left: David de Gea – although the veteran goalkeeper could yet sign a new contract with the 13-time Premier League champions, even as they reportedly chase the likes of Inter Milan’s Andre Onana and Porto’s Diogo Costa.