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Arsenal ‘aspire’ to sign Athletico Paranaense’s Vitor Roque in the summer, according to Sport.

Barcelona have been chasing the 18-year-old and they need to be aware of the competition from England, where the Gunners have positioned themselves for the operation.

It’s explained Arsenal ‘insist the most’ to secure the striker’s services. The Gunners are his ‘strongest bidders’, with their transfer chief, Edu Gasper, leading the pursuit. The director has been incontact with the teenager’s camp for months.

Edu is offering the Brazil U20 international a ‘tailor-made’ sporting project at the north London club, and he also knows how to treat young talents from South American.

Roque can meet his compatriots, Gabriel Magalhães, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and even Jorginho, if he moves to the Emirates.

His father, along with his agent, are in London, where they will have talks with a few English clubs over a potential deal.

The youngster will leave Athletico Paranaense in the summer, and Barca will have to battle it out with Arsenal for his signature.

Unlike the Catalan club, Mikel Arteta’s side don’t have any financial restrictions to carry out his signing.

If Arsenal reach an agreement with Roque, they can negotiate with Athletico, without having to request or demand to pay the fee in several instalments.

Chelsea are also said to be keen.