It has been reported that Manchester City are competing with Brighton & Hove Albion to secure the services of Valentin Barco.
This comes from ESPN Argentina journalist Emiliano Raddi, as reports have circulated that he may be on his way out of Boca Juniors.
Now, it seems like Manchester City and Brighton & Hove Albion are intrigued by the prospect of signing Valentin Barco.
Journalist: Manchester City & Brighton are keen on signing Valentin Barco
Branded as a ‘gem’ by FootTheBall, the 19-year-old is considered as one of the most talented up-and-coming left-backs in South American football.
Capable of playing in midfield as well, the teenager would perhaps be well-suited to playing in an inverted role at the Etihad Stadium, if the move came to fruition.
Now, it has been revealed that both Manchester City and Brighton are ‘willing to pay’ the £7.8 million release clause to sign Valentin Barco.
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However, the youngster intends to play in the Copa Libertadores, which ends in November.
While Barco is yet to decide his next destination, it seems likely that he will bid farewell to Boca Juniors after the tournament ends.
Valentin Barco could be a Julian Alvarez-esque signing
First things first, if Brighton are interested in a youngster; Valentin Barco in this case, Manchester City and any club can pat their scouts on the back.
Secondly, the Argentine’s arrival could be similar to that of Julian Alvarez.
Discovering an unearthed gem, bringing him over to the senior-team , assessing their talent in pre-season and training is a low-risk method of creating a team full of future superstars.
The same was the case with Julian Alvarez, branded as ‘extraordinary’ by Khaldoon Al-Mubarak, who is now regarded as one of the best strikers in the Premier League.
Considering the treble-winners have always struggled in the left-back department, Barco’s arrival could prove to be a blessing, especially if he shows himself to be first-team ready from the get-go.