Newcastle Eye €40m Outcast as Wilson Heir

It is widely known that Newcastle is searching for a new center-forward to replace Callum Wilson.

The 32-year-old's qualifications are undeniable; however, his physical condition is uncertain. 

The England striker, who scored nine goals in 20 Premier League games last season, is already grappling with a back issue and is out of contract next summer. 

This has raised questions about his potential to remain at St James' Park.

A single obvious candidate who is capable of providing long-term support for Alexander Isak in the No.9 position is available and has the potential to make an immediate impact.

Vitor Roque is not assigned a squad number at Barcelona; however, he could potentially be acquired for a price of approximately €40 million from a Camp Nou organization that is in dire need of substantial sales to alleviate its precarious financial situation.

Despite Robert Lewandowski's struggles with form, a deal for the 19-year-old was expedited in January. However, he has yet to make an appearance.

However, the teenager's potential is evident.

Vitor Roque: A performer who is anticipating an explosion

According to SciSports, a data analytics company, Vitor Roque has the potential to become a "key player" at Newcastle, surpassing any current player on the team.

Naturally, he has not yet achieved that level. He is assigned a SciSkill rating of 78.1, derived from hundreds of in-game data points, as opposed to Wilson's 87.8 and Isak's 107.1. He was capable of rapidly closing the distance with the Englishman.

Meanwhile, his tenure in Brazil indicates that he possesses a striking style similar to Wilson's in the center-forward position, suggesting he could easily fill the void. 

Additionally, Eddie Howe advocates for such adaptability, which includes the ability to play across the front line.

The data analytics specialists have determined that Newcastle is the most suitable club for Vitor Roque to further his career.

A remarkable Club Fit score of 80 has been assigned to Howe's team. This is predicated on various factors, such as scope for playing time, prospective development, and tactical considerations regarding style and setup.

Newcastle receives five stars for their playing style and formation, suggesting that Roque is an ideal match for Howe's football approach.

The sole prospective disadvantage is the absence of playing time.

Roque's agent has already disclosed the Brazilians' dissatisfaction with Barcelona, the club he selected to join in place of many other clubs interested in his services, such as Manchester United and Arsenal.

Rasmus Hojlund's six-week absence will reignite speculation regarding United's continued interest.

 Nevertheless, Roque is not well-suited to Erik ten Hag's approach, and he would receive only a small amount of game time and have limited development opportunities.

Newcastle presents a more sensible alternative, as Hojlund appears to have established himself as Manchester United's long-term No.9 in a manner that Isak has not at St. James'.

Undeniably, €40 million is a substantial investment for Newcastle, entering the top ten most expensive transfers of all time. 

However, the Magpies have a proven track record of success when they make significant investments. Vitor Roque would be an additional intelligent acquisition in a position that requires further development.