Man Utd snubbed by ‘new Lewandowski’ as wonderkid striker completes £48m Barcelona transfer despite late hijack bid
MANCHESTER UNITED have been snubbed by the “new Robert Lewandowski.”
That’s after they tried hijacking Barcelona’s £48million move for wonderkid Vitor Roque.
The Athletico Paranaense striker, 18, has scored 15 goals in 30 games this year and was also on Arsenal’s radar.
But Roque will become a Barcelona player in 2024 after the Spaniards confirmed his capture on a deal until 2031.
Xavi Hernandez’s side are paying £48m for the hitman, whose contract includes a stunning £427m release clause.
Roque only had eyes for Barcelona after making his senior Brazil debut in March.
However, that didn’t stop Man United and rivals Tottenham from submitting last-ditch transfer bids worth £85m at the final moment.
Roque’s agent Cury revealed: “I can confirm that English clubs tried to hijack the deal.
“Tottenham and United sent important bids, way better than Barca: close to £85m.
“Vitor only wanted Barca, there was no chance to change his mind.”
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Roque now has 12 more months with Atletico before making his move to the Nou Camp.
The teenager is seen by Barca chiefs as the long-term successor to Poland star Lewandowski, who turns 35 next month.
Roque is also capable of playing out wide.
And he will become the second top Brazilian youngster to move to Spain next summer after Barca’s rivals Real Madrid completed a £60m move for Palmeiras winger Endrick.
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