Barcelona receive green light from FIFA for Vitor Roque sale, awaiting Real Betis approval | OneFootball

The Vitor Roque transfer saga has been dominating headlines in the Barcelona sphere in recent days, with the Catalans trying to sell the striker, currently on loan at Real Betis, to Brazilian giants Palmeiras.

The move appeared set to be completed this week but La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) blocked it citing legal issues as Barça would be unable to recall the 19-year-old, re-register and then sell him due to the transfer window being closed in Spain.

Given the situation, Barcelona have approached FIFA and UEFA to seek a resolution on the matter as they hope to complete the striker’s sale which would see them pocket €25 million for 80% of his rights.

FIFA give the OK

Now, Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona have now received FIFA’s official approval to proceed with the deal to sell Vitor Roque to Palmeiras.

Barcelona had been exploring a legal loophole within FIFA’s regulations to facilitate the transfer – specifically, Article 5.2 of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players which provides a legal avenue for them to sell Roque, even though the Spanish transfer window is closed.

A return to Brazil inching closer. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

After consulting with their legal department and an external law firm, the Blaugrana have now obtained confirmation from FIFA that the move can go ahead.

Real Betis approval needed

However, before completing the deal, Barcelona must first negotiate the termination of Tigrinho’s loan agreement with Real Betis.

Barcelona hope to reach an agreement with Betis before Friday – when the transfer window in Brazil closes – either by offering financial compensation or by increasing the Andalusian club’s percentage ownership of a jointly held player, such as Ez Abde.

Once that is done, Roque can officially sign with Palmeiras, which will see Barcelona receive €25 million for 80% of the Brazilian forward’s economic rights, ensuring a much-needed financial boost while offloading a player not in the team’s plans.