Brighton sign Argentine teenager Barco from Boca Juniors

Brighton & Hove Albion have signed versatile Argentina Under-23 international Valentin Barco from Boca Juniors on a four-and-a-half-year deal, the south coast club said on Saturday.

The 19-year-old started in 18 Primera Division matches for Boca last year and made nine appearances in their Copa Libertadores campaign, including the final.

"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," Brighton technical director David Weir said.

We are pleased to confirm the signing of Valentin Barco from Boca Juniors, who has joined on a four-and-a-half-year contract until June 2028! ??

— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) January 20, 2024

Barco is currently representing Argentina at the South American Olympic qualifiers in Venezuela, which conclude on 11 February.

Brighton are eighth in the Premier League with 31 points from 20 matches, and host Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday.