Manchester City are “still interested” in signing Boca Juniors wingback Valentin Barco, according to RN Radio.

The Argentinian radio station claim that the Premier League champions are the “main candidate” to buy the teenager during the January transfer window.

Barco reached the Copa Libertadores final last month, where Boca lost to Fluminense in extra-time, and his performances have attracted the attention of several Premier League teams.

The likes of Brighton and Chelsea have been credited with an interest in the left-back, along with Liverpool. Serie A side Juventus have also reportedly been keeping track of the player.

Barco is available for a bargain price

RN Radio has confirmed rumours that the 19-year-old has a $10m (£8m) release clause in his contract, which makes him a low-risk purchase for a team like City.

Of course, that fee will also make him an attractive target for rivals, but it seems as if Pep Guardiola‘s side remain the red-hot favourites to secure his signature.

City want to use him as a first-team player straight away

Considering his young age, it had been assumed that the Cityzens would look to loan the defender out in order for him to gain more first-team experience.

However, reports in the Spanish media last month claimed that Barco would be part of the senior squad if he does complete his move to the Etihad Stadium in January.

With Nathan Ake and Josko Gvardiol being rotated by Guardiola on the left-hand side of defence, it is hard to see where Barco would get much game time, unless the manager opts to use him further up the pitch.

The Argentinian can also be deployed as a winger or even in midfield if required, and that flexibility is likely to be something that Guardiola will try to make use of.