Brighton sign Argentina U23 star Barco from Boca Juniors

Brighton have signed highly rated Argentine Under-23 defender Valentín Barco from Boca Juniors, the club announced on Saturday.

Barco, 19, arrives on England's south coast after a promising start to his career in Argentina, during which he helped Boca reach the Copa Libertadores final last year.

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He represented Argentina at the U20 World Cup last June and has since won two U23 international caps.

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

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

“We are delighted to welcome him to the club and look forward to seeing how he progresses and develops under Roberto’s leadership. [de Zerbi]”.