Brazilian wonderkid Vitor Roque has offered transfer hope to Manchester United after dismissing reports claiming he is close to joining Barcelona.

The 18-year-old forward, who has emerged as one of the hottest prospects in his homeland, is expected to complete an imminent move to Europe after catching the eye at Athletico Paranense.

He could cost any of his many suitors around £53 million ($65m), due to having a release clause in his contract.

He told AS: “I try to focus more on the present than on the future, because today is more important than tomorrow. My destiny is in the hands of God, so I continue working with humility. My future will be a result of today’s work. I try not to focus on what happens off the pitch.

“I don’t have a preferred club, so I let it be. I think that the present with the Paranaense is more important right now for me.”

When asked about the possibility of linking up with fellow countryman Raphinha at Barcelona, he added: “I don’t know, because I don’t play for Barcelona yet.”

Roque has been included in the senior Brazil squad by interim coach Ramon Menezes for a friendly date with Morocco on Saturday.