Barcelona to complete transfer weeks after Spanish window closes after spotting 'loophole' in FIFA rules

Barcelona have cleverly exploited a transfer loophole within FIFA's rules to complete a deal weeks after the winter window closed.

On Tuesday night, Spanish giants Barcelona drew in a thrilling 4-4 clash with Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Copa del Rey tie.

The result came after what was an uncharacteristically quiet transfer window for Barcelona, who decided against making any reinforcements in the winter having battled to secure a massive deal for Dani Olmo over the summer.

But it's now been revealed that the Blaugrana club have figured out a way to complete a transfer deal despite the window closing three weeks ago.

Despite reports of Barcelona struggling with their finances, the Spanish side initially decided that they wouldn't sell any of their players during the winter window, but it appears that they now regret this decision.

Following the window closing, the La Liga leaders started exploring the possibility of selling young striker Vitor Roque this month.

With many of the transfer windows globally closed, and rules seemingly prohibiting Barcelona from negotiating a deal, it seems unlikely that Roque would be sold before the summer, but this may have changed.

According the Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish club believe that they have found a legal loophole in the FIFA's regulations that would allow them to sell Roque to Palmeiras, ahead of the Brazilian transfer market window on Friday.

Vitor Roque has scored seven goals in 33 matches for loan club Real Betis. (Image: Getty)

Both La Liga and the Brazilian Federation made it clear that they had not authorised the transfer, but Barcelona believe that article 5.2 of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players that offers them a potential way t to facilitate the transfer of the young Brazilian this week.

But before the move can be finalised, a deal will need to be agreed between Barcelona and Real Betis, who currently have Roque on loan, either through financial compensation other means.

Should this be possible, it appears likely that the 19-year-old will sign for Palmeiras this week, with Barcelona receiving €25million (£20.75) for the youngster, as well as a 20% sell on clause.