According to a report from Fichajes, AC Milan have joined the race to sign Valentin Barco. The 19-year-old Boca Juniors defender is wanted by Chelsea and Real Madrid as well.
The Argentine defender is highly rated around the world, and he could prove to be a solid, long-term acquisition for all three clubs. Chelsea, who recently joined the race to sign him, could certainly use more quality and depth in the left-back department. And Barco would be a superb long-term addition for them.
The Blues paid big money for Marc Cucurella last year. But the former Brighton defender has failed to live up to the expectations since his move to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea will need to replace him in the coming months, and the 19-year-old Argentine defender could prove to be a quality alternative.
The teenage sensation has the talent and potential to play for a big club. But it remains to be seen whether Chelsea can win the race for his signature. Meanwhile, Real Madrid are keen on the 19-year-old as well, and Los Blancos could use a quality left-back as well.
The opportunity to join the Spanish club can be hard to turn down for any player. So, Barco might be attracted to the idea of playing for them. Both Chelsea and Real Madrid have substantial resources at their disposal. But it will be interesting to see if they decide to follow up on their interest with a concrete proposal to sign the player in the coming months.
The 19-year-old needs to join a club where he will get ample first-team action, and it remains to be seen whether Chelsea or Real Madrid can provide him with first-team assurances. He would have to compete with players like Ben Chilwell and Fran Garcia at the two clubs. Meanwhile, Alphonso Davies might also arrive at Real Madrid next year.
AC Milan might be in a better position to offer him game-time assurances. Regular football in Serie A could be ideal for his development as well. It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few months and where the 19-year-old ends up.
