The Sale That Changes Everything: What Vitor Roque’s Departure Means for Lamine Yamal’s Future
FC Barcelona continues to make moves in the market, and this time, the big news is the sale of Vitor Roque to Palmeiras for 25.5 million euros, plus five million in variables. A deal that, beyond the financial aspect, has an important underlying factor. This factor paves the way to secure the future of the club's crown jewel, Lamine Yamal. With the recent contract renewals of Pedri and Gavi, Barça has made it clear that their next big mission is to lock down their best player, a generational talent who is attracting interest from all over Europe.
The departure of Roque not only balances the accounts but also clears the salary landscape to finalize the much-anticipated renewal of Yamal. The young star is under contract until 2026, but the club already has a verbal agreement to extend it until 2030 with a release clause of one billion euros. Plus, for good reason, at just 17 years old, his impact on the team is immense, and his market value is already close to 180 million. PSG, Manchester City, and other giants are on the lookout, but the homegrown talent has made it clear that his dream is to succeed at Barca.
The Roque deal also brings other benefits. To begin with, Barça is freed from variable payments that would have further complicated their already bad financial situation. Additionally, with the extra margin gained in terms of financial fair play, the renewal of Iñigo Martínez, a key piece in Hansi Flick's high defensive line, can now be unblocked. The Basque center back already has everything agreed to stay, but La Liga had previously put up obstacles due to the club's financial situation. Now, everything suggests that his continuity will be secured for one more year.
On the sporting side, Roque's departure reinforces an idea that has been circulating within the club's board: the absolute commitment to Lamine Yamal. With Robert Lewandowski still in the team for one more year and the emergence of prime Raphinha, Barça has decided that the future of their attack inevitably revolves around the talent of the '27.’ The club has learned its lesson from past stars who left too early and is determined not to repeat the same mistake. Now, with Pedri and Gavi secured, it's time to complete the circle with Yamal. Due to this, one thing is clear at Barcelona: their present and future have a first and last name.
