Deco considers legal action against ex-presidential candidate over Vitor Roque transfer allegations | OneFootball

Earlier this week, former Barcelona presidential candidate Victor Font gave an extensive interview in response to Joan Laporta’s interview wherein the club chief talked about the registration saga, the club’s financial situation, and several other key topics.

During the interview, Font lashed out at Laporta, claiming that the team’s situation under the current board was worse than that under Josep Maria Bartomeu.

Not only that, but Font also took aim at sporting director Deco, over the signing of Vitor Roque, accusing him of wrongdoing, which has now led to the Portuguese considering legal action against Font, as per SPORT.

What did Font say?

Indeed, Font questioned the signing of Roque by Deco, stating that he had offered the Brazilian to Barça before (as an agent) but was shot down, only to sign him as soon as he became the director.

“We had Marc Guiu, there was no fair play and we signed Vitor Roque. If we saw that he was the new Ronaldinho, we understand him and prioritize talent, but it is evident that he does not have the characteristics to play in Barça,” he began.

“Deco had offered him to the club when he was his representative. Jordi Cruyff and Mateu Alemany said there was no fair play, and it was not a priority. The first thing Deco did was sign Vitor Roque as soon as he arrived,” he added.

Vitor Roque joined Barcelona last year. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Vitor Roque joined Barcelona from Athletico Paranaense for a fee of €30 million, plus €31 million in add-ons, in January 2024.

Although the transfer was seen as a long-term investment, the Brazilian scarcely featured under Xavi Hernandez. Hansi Flick also appeared unconvinced about Roque’s current ability to play at the highest level for Barcelona.

This led to Roque’s loan move to Real Betis for two seasons in the summer, where he is doing well.

Deco’s stance

It is important to note that Deco has never represented Vitor Roque, as the player’s agent has been Andre Cury, a well-established representative in dealings involving Brazilian players at Barcelona.

Deco has firmly stated that he did not offer Roque to the club. While Cruyff and Alemany initially considered the transfer, they chose not to pursue it further.

Deco, who had followed Roque closely and watched him play live, ultimately took responsibility for the signing, despite his predecessors having worked on the deal months earlier and nearly reaching an agreement.

Deco has now demanded that Victor Font retract his statements. Should he refuse to do so, Deco is prepared to take legal action regarding the matter.