Everton are reportedly interested in signing Palmeiras striker Vitor Roque, with the forward valued at more than £41.5m.
The Toffees' need for a striker became clear this summer when Iliman Ndiaye and Beto both left Hill Dickinson Stadium. Folarin Balogun had seemed poised to lead the line, but his move collapsed.
Failed Balogun deal leaves gap
A £38.5m deal was agreed with Monaco on deadline day, but fitness concerns and the player walking away at the eleventh hour meant only one senior striker remained at the club: Thierno Barry.
Barry has impressed since August, scoring four Premier League goals in nine games. He also netted a hat-trick against Preston in the Carabao Cup and has four goals in that competition overall.
Roque's record and career
Despite Barry's form, the Toffees are still seeking another striker, and Roque could be the player they turn to. The 21-year-old has scored nine goals in all competitions this season for Palmeiras, despite an ankle injury that sidelined him for a significant part of the campaign.
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Everton are considering a move in January 2027. It is claimed he would act as competition to Barry for the starting centre-forward spot.
Roque moved to Palmeiras in 2025. He started his career with Cruzeiro and Athletico Paranaense before signing for Barcelona in 2023. It never quite worked out in La Liga, however. Following a loan spell at Real Betis, he returned to Brazil with Palmeiras. Barcelona sold Roque for £20m but retain 20 per cent of the striker's economic rights.
Roque scored 20 goals in 2025 and is under contract until December 2029. This might not stop Everton from launching a bid when the new year arrives, though the £41.5m sum is only the reported starting price for Roque.
