HITC Football understands that Brighton & Hove Albion are locked in talks with Boca Juniors to secure the signing of Valentin Barco.
The 19-year-old left-sider – who can play in defence or midfield – is regarded as one of the biggest talents in South America and has been on the radar of the likes of Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid.
He played a starring role in Boca’s run to the final of the Copa Libertadores and now he is considering his future. Boca are trying to tie him to a new long-term deal – which would also take out his current release clauses.
Release clause
As it stands Barco can leave for $10million (£7.8million) this month – although that increases to $14million if he moves within ten days of the end of the window.
City had been in talks but sources close to the European champion’s have indicated their interest has cooled and they no longer see him as a priority.
Brighton, who have been on Barco’s trail for much of the last 12-months, have now made their move and have made an opening offer of $9million (£7million). The bid was rejected but talks are continuing and sources believe a deal is close.
Brighton have a huge reputation in Argentina and South America at large for being an excellent club to join, one who can open many avenues to a player if they perform as expected at the AMEX.
The Seagulls now have a rich tradition with Argentine talent including Alexis Mac Allister – who earned himself a move to Liverpool – and current Brighton midfielder Facundo Buonanotte.
Barco encouraged to join Brighton
Indeed, Buonanotte only last month encouraged Barco to join him on the South Coast.
Speaking to El Grafico about the prospect of Barca arriving, he said: “I would tell him that this is a great club to start with in Europe, which gives the kids a lot of opportunities, if they come here they will play. It is a perfect club that welcomes you very well.”
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