Valentin Barco is now set to leave Boca Juniors and could play his final game on Saturday – amid reports he is joining Manchester City.
That is according to TNT Sports.
So, what is the latest on Manchester City and Valentin Barco? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well – according to respected journalist Martin Liberman – the Argentine will join Manchester City in January, and Pep Guardiola has even sent him a personalised fitness plan.
That particular lead has gone quiet, although Barco certainly looks set to be leaving Boca Juniors.
TNT Sports explain how the 19-year-old is “hardly” still at La Bombonera despite Boca Juniors attempting to renew his contract.
The story adds that Barco could play his final game for Boca Juniors in Saturday’s Copa Libertadores final against Fluminense.
That particular line leaves a lot to be desired, as Boca Juniors still have Primera División clashes before the January transfer window – it remains to be seen if Barco will feature in them.
TNT Sports add that Manchester City actually made a bid close to the teenager’s €10m (£9m) release clause during the summer transfer window.
However, Barco himself chose to stay as he wanted to partake in the Copa Libertadores.
Now, the feeling is that the Argentina Under-20 international will start to prepare for a move, possibly to Manchester City if Liberman is to be trusted, once Saturday’s Copa Libertadores final against Fluminense is over.
Manchester City face competition for Valentin Barco
Liberman firmly believes Barco is moving to the Etihad Stadium – Sergio Aguero has also tipped his fellow countryman to join Manchester City – although others will try to stop that.
TNT Sports add that AC Milan are keen to sign the South American, while 90min believe Chelsea are also interested and are stepping up their pursuit.
While AC Milan and Chelsea are huge clubs, Manchester City should feel quietly confident about signing Barco, given their status as treble winners and with Guardiola at the helm too.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as the Argentine could arrive at the Etihad Stadium this winter.
