Manchester City will face a “new competitor” in the form of Brighton as the battle to sign Boca Juniors wingback Valentin Barco heats up, according to Boca Noticias.

The Argentinian website report that the Seagulls are keen to “take him before the start of 2024”. Considering we are only a couple of weeks away from the New Year, that would suggest an offer from Roberto De Zerbi’s side could be imminent.

City have been tracking Barco for quite some time, and it would be a surprise if they did allow a Premier League rival to steal the player from under their noses.

Boca Noticias say that the Citizens don’t want to lose out on the 19-year-old, so it’s possible that an offer could also arrive from the Premier League champions if Brighton do formalise their interest.

Barco has a release clause in his contract

It has been widely reported that the Argentinan Under 20 international can be signed by any club if they are prepared to pay his $10m (£7.8m) release clause.

For a team like City, that is pocket change. Other English top-flight clubs, such as Chelsea and Liverpool, have also been linked with Barco so it may be wise to table an offer before competition increases even further.

What do City fans need to know about Barco?

The teenager operates on the left flank, and he is equally comfortable playing as a fullback or as a winger. Last season for Boca, he played 8 games on the left-hand side of midfield, and 22 as either a left-back or left wingback.

Barco made 32 appearances in total for Boca, helping them reach the Copa Libertadores final (the South American equivalent of the Champions League). There is no sign that he will sign a contract extension, despite his current deal expiring at the end of next year, so he seems poised for a switch to European football.