La Liga club rule out Barcelona loanee’s mid-season departure amid strong interest | OneFootball

Vitor Roque continues to be a topic of much discussion in Spanish media with Palmeiras trying to lure the Barcelona loanee away from Real Betis this month.

Indeed, the Brazilian giants are eager to sign the young striker who is currently on loan with Los Verdiblancos from Barça until the end of the season with an option for an additional year and even a permanent transfer.

Palmeiras president Leila Pereira confirmed as much in an interview earlier this week, while also insisting that the deal will not be straightforward given that they have to negotiate with both Betis and Barcelona.

Real Betis unwilling to let Roque leave

However, now, according to AS, Real Betis currently have no intention of letting Roque leave before the end of this month when the transfer window in Brazil closes.

Tigrinho was a vital part of Betis’ early-season plans, scoring seven goals and being a regular starter for them. However, circumstances have changed, and the forward is now seeking more minutes on the pitch.

No longer a regular at Betis. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

The arrival of Cucho Hernandez and the improved form of Cedric Bakambu have complicated Roque’s prospects, while Palmeiras remain hopeful of bringing him on board.

But the stance from Real Betis is firm: Roque will not depart at this stage of the campaign. The club understands the importance of having all three of their strikers available to handle upcoming challenges.

Although Cucho Hernandez is gaining minutes in La Liga and appears to be Manuel Pellegrini’s preferred choice for the starting XI, he is not registered for the UEFA Conference League.

This limitation means that any injury or unforeseen issue could significantly impact Betis’ attacking options in the competition.

As such, Real Betis have no plans to alter their attacking lineup as they navigate the critical phase of the season, meaning Roque’s exit is unlikely to be sanctioned.