Manchester City are reportedly confident that they will beat other Premier League sides to the signing of Boca Juniors wonderkid Valentin Barco.
The 19-year-old has made a stunning breakthrough into the first team at La Bombonera and is regarded as one of the biggest talents in South America.
A fierce left-back, Barco has attracted interest from Brighton and Juventus amongst others, but City now look set to win the race for his signature.
The Daily Star have reported that Pep Guardiola’s side are growing more confident that they will sign the teenager in January, with City able to offer favourable financial terms upfront on his £8m release clause.
City wanted him in the summer window but ran out of time to complete a deal. They now look set to land their target in January, with Joan Patsy, who was behind the signings of Gabriel Jesus and Julian Alvarez from South American sides Palmeiras and River Plate, playing a key role.
How good is Valentin Barco?
Barco is a left-back who now seems ideal for this Man City system, as a player both comfortable on the ball and aggressive in duels.
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Given his age, it would be a surprise if he immediately became a starter for City, but he could slot straight in at left-back if necessary, and given his vast potential, it may not be too long before he becomes undroppable.
He is still raw, having made just 21 appearances for Boca, who struggled and finished in seventh place last year, but his talent at both ends of the pitch is obvious.
He has played as both a full-back and a wide attacker further up the pitch, with his dribbling and strength also proving useful going forward, and his raw attributes make him ideal for Guardiola to mould him into a defender for City.