Brighton are now confident about signing Valentin Barco from Boca Juniors – after Manchester City were tipped to strike an agreement.

That is according to Fabrizio Romano.

So, what is the latest on Manchester City target Valentin Barco? Let’s take a look…

Brighton confident about deal for Valentin Barco

Well – according to Football Transfers – the Boca Juniors No.19 had decided to join Manchester City after the Citizens showed the Argentine around the Etihad Campus.

It came after Sergio Aguero also backed Barco to join Manchester City.

Now, however – according to Romano – Brighton believe they will sign the Argentine U23 international.

The reliable Italian journalist wrote on X (previously known as Twitter): “Valentin Barco will leave Boca Juniors. Decision made — while Brighton keep talking to Boca on deal structure.

“If deal is not agreed between the two clubs early next week, Brighton will be ready to activate release clause. Brighton, confident to get it done soon.”

Manchester City should try to hijack deal

In our view, a £9m deal for Barco is too good to miss out on – it has such a high potential upside, with little risk given the fee.

Therefore, we think Manchester City should attempt to hijack the negotiations and trigger the 19-year-old’s release clause, before sending him on loan to Brighton, or even back to Boca Juniors.

Leicester – managed by Pep Guardiola’s old assistant Enzo Maresca – have also been mentioned as a potential loan destination if Manchester City manage to sign the South American.

£9m is a drop in the ocean for Manchester City nowadays, so even if things do not work out, Barco is certainly worth the gamble.

Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as anything could happen in January.