Palmeiras have turned down a R$165 million (€25.5 million) offer from Europe for young striker Vitor Roque, confirming that the star forward will remain in Brazil for the 2026 season.
Vitor Roque Remains a Key Asset at Palmeiras
The 20-year-old striker has become the club’s most expensive signing in history, after arriving from Barcelona. Despite a challenging start, Roque regained form and ended 2025 as one of Brazil’s most promising forwards.
His high-level performances have once again attracted attention from European clubs, particularly those in the Premier League, including Manchester United and Chelsea.
Record Offer Was Rejected
According to GE, Palmeiras received a formal inquiry from an unnamed European club, which included an offer exceeding the amount the Brazilian side paid to acquire Roque. The proposal was valued at over R$165 million, a figure that would make the player one of the most expensive transfers in Brazilian football history.
Despite the tempting financial terms, the Palmeiras board refused to sell, emphasizing the importance of keeping key players for the upcoming season. The club has taken a similar stance with Flaco López, who is also expected to remain.
Vitor Roque’s Impressive 2025 Season
Under Abel Ferreira, Roque featured in 56 games, scoring 20 goals and providing five assists, contributing to 25 total goal involvements. His consistent performances have solidified him as the club’s main attacking reference and a crucial player for Palmeiras’ ambitions in 2026.
Palmeiras Focused on Titles
The board’s decision reflects a clear strategy: Palmeiras intends to compete for domestic and international titles in 2026 and is not willing to let go of its top talent, even in the face of record-breaking offers.
Vitor Roque’s decision to stay ensures that the club enters the new season with one of the strongest attacking lines in Brazilian football, signaling intent to dominate both nationally and continentally.
