Brighton Complete Signing Of Valentin Barco From Boca Juniors

The 19-year-old has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract worth $10m.

Barco made 35 appearances for Boca's first team after breaking into the side in 2021.

The Argentina u-23 international is Brighton's first signing of the winter transfer window.

“We have been aware of Valentin for a long time and have been impressed with the progress he has made at domestic and international level,” Brighton technical director David Weir said.

“We’re delighted to welcome him to the club, and we are looking forward to seeing how he progresses and develops under Roberto.

“He has played predominantly on the left side, as a full-back, wing-back or winger, but also shown his versatility with Boca, playing across the midfield.

“He is an exciting prospect, but it’s also important we give him the time as he needs to settle and adapt to new surroundings and the Premier League.”

Barco is currently on international duty with Argentina's Olympic team and will link up with his new club in early February.