Manchester City ‘very advanced’ in pursuit of signing – Guardiola’s side have clear plan for player

For the past few weeks, various claims from Argentina have insisted Manchester City are in the picture to sign Boca Junior’s Valentín Barco.

This is backed up by a ‘confidential’ report from today’s Sport, who then provide more details on the Citizens’ pursuit of the 19-year-old.

It’s said Manchester City are ‘very advanced’ in their efforts to bring Barco to the Etihad.

Sport explain that the treble winners’ plan is to sign him and have him develop under Pep Guardiola’s orders instead of sending him out on loan elsewhere.

The Argentina U20 international has been used as a left wing-back, left-back and also as a left winger this season, managing a goal and three assists from 27 games.

His deal lasts until December 2024 and the report states it includes a €10m release clause which is affordable for Manchester City and other Premier League sides that have shown interest in him.

On Saturday, Boca Juniors will face Fluminense in the Copa Libertadores final, and Sport say Barco’s future could be decided depending on the outcome of the upcoming clash.

If Boca were to win, they’ll qualify for the FIFA Club World Cup next month. If not, ‘everything will be rushed’ regarding the youngster’s future.

On Tuesday, TNT Sports reported the South American club want to extend Barco’s deal, in order to raise his release clause.