Brighton have stepped up their efforts to sign Boca Juniors left-back Valentín Barco. According to renowned sports journalist César Luis Merlo, the English club has submitted a formal offer that meets the player's release clause set at $10 million and also offers 10% of transfer rights.
Barco's contract situation increases the urgency of negotiations as his contract with Boca Juniors expires at the end of the year. So far no agreement has been reached on the extension, which further nuances the situation.
🚨#Brighton made a formal offer for Valentin Barco, defender of #Mouth.
*️⃣Offer is for get out clause, $10,000,000 and you will receive 10% of the pass. “Colo” is ending his contract at the end of the year and there is currently no agreement on his extension. pic.twitter.com/QLHS0GpqlK– César Luis Merlo (@CLMerlo) January 5, 2024
Valentin Barco, just a step away from Brighton
However, Boca Juniors could reject Brighton's offer as the Argentine club waits for their release clause to be increased to $14 million. Boca's strategy is risky as Brighton have the opportunity to exercise the current clause before the increase occurs, which could jeopardize the talented full-back's stay.
Valentin Barco's agent is in constant dialogue with Brighton and is establishing himself as the main candidate for the player's services. A formal offer is expected to arrive shortly and in the event of rejection, Brighton intends to implement the clause next Monday. This decision would come before the release clause is increased from $10 million to $14 million.
The transfer window is open and Valentin Barco's future appears to be in the spotlight, with Brighton ready to act quickly and decisively.