On Sunday (19), Barcelona announced a debt of 17 million euros (R$107.9 million) to Athletico-PR for the 2023 signing of striker Vitor Roque. During the Shareholders’ Assembly, the Catalan club disclosed a total debt of 159 million euros (R$1 billion) related to player purchases. The debt to the Brazilian club is classified as short-term, with payment expected within the current season. Vitor Roque, now at Palmeiras, is the only player no longer in the squad with a debt exceeding 10 million euros.
- Barcelona’s total debt includes other players, such as Raphinha and Lewandowski.
- The club plans to settle short-term debts by the end of the 2025 season.
- Vitor Roque’s sale to Palmeiras recovered part of the initial investment.
🔵🔴 MARCA says that FC Barcelona still owe Athletico Parananense €17 million for Vitor Roque, who's already left to Palmeiras some time ago 👀 pic.twitter.com/cin0GnMyV4
— Sleeper FC Barcelona (@SleeperBarca) October 19, 2025
Barcelona’s financial situation
The Catalan club faces challenges in balancing its finances. The 159 million euro debt covers several players acquired in recent years. The management is prioritizing the settlement of short-term debts, such as Vitor Roque’s.
Additionally, the Shareholders’ Assembly emphasized the need for financial adjustments. Barcelona has implemented measures to cut costs and boost revenue, including asset sales and contract renegotiations.
Vitor Roque’s transfer
Vitor Roque was signed by Barcelona in 2023 but failed to secure a regular spot. In 16 matches, he scored just two goals, leading to his transfer to Palmeiras in 2025. The Brazilian club paid 25.5 million euros (R$161.8 million) for the striker.
At Palmeiras, Vitor Roque has excelled under coach Abel Ferreira. The player is a key part of the attack and is competing for the Brasileirão’s top scorer title. The transfer allowed Barcelona to recover a significant portion of the initial investment.
Other club debts
Barcelona has smaller debts related to players like Pau Victor and Abde Ezzalzouli. These amounts, below 10 million euros, involve players with less financial impact. The list also includes names like Kika Nazareth and Jorge Cuenca, all with debts under negotiation.
The club is working to regularize these obligations. The strategy focuses on prioritizing higher-value payments, such as Vitor Roque’s. Management also aims to avoid new financial commitments without proper planning.
Settling these debts is crucial for the club’s financial health. Barcelona is monitoring cash flow to ensure long-term sustainability, especially amid pressure for on-field results.
Impact on Athletico-PR
Athletico-PR awaits the 17 million euro payment for Vitor Roque’s transfer. The Brazilian club maintains contact with Barcelona to ensure the agreement is honored. The payment is expected to strengthen Athletico’s finances, supporting investments in infrastructure and youth development.
Vitor Roque’s performance in Brazil
After a lackluster stint at Barcelona, Vitor Roque has rediscovered his form at Palmeiras. The striker has stood out for his speed and goal-scoring ability, becoming a key player in the Brasileirão. His quick adaptation to Brazilian football reinforces Palmeiras’ wise investment.
Planning for 2025
Barcelona plans to resolve short-term debts in 2025. Vitor Roque’s sale was a significant step in easing financial pressures. The club is also pursuing new commercial deals to bolster its finances. Management aims to balance the books without compromising sporting performance.
