Latest Nottingham Forest transfer news as Reds linked with Boca Juniors youngster ahead of January windo

As a transfer race approaches, Nottingham Forest ‘monitor’ an in-demand teenager with an £8 million release clause.
Nottingham Forest have been connected with a young Boca Juniors player ahead of the January transfer window.

Nottingham Forest are reportedly interested in signing Boca Juniors teenager Valentin Barco.

However, the Reds are not the only club interested in the Argentine defender. A battle for his signature appears to be on the horizon.

Barco has only recently come into Boca’s first team, but his excellent performances have made many observers take notice. He is a left-back by trade, but his versatility allows him to play as a winger as well. He is regarded as one of Argentina’s top young players.

According to 90min, Forest, Chelsea, Manchester City, Newcastle United, Brentford, and Wolverhampton Wanderers have all watched the 19-year-old in recent weeks. Brighton and Hove Albion, on the other hand, are thought to be leading the pursuit, having held negotiations with Barco’s representatives regarding a possible move next year.

Celtic, Bayer Leverkusen, Borussia Dortmund, Benfica, Porto, Roma, Juventus, PSG, and Monaco are among the clubs that have expressed interest in Barco. Despite the player’s vast list of admirers, it appears Boca hasn’t given up hope on keeping him.

The teenager is now under contract until December 2024, with sources claiming he has a $10 million (about £8 million) release clause. Boca wants him to sign a new contract that either increases or eliminates the release clause.

“Barco has a contract with us,” D Sports Radio board member Marcelo Delgado said. “At this time, we have received no proposals for him.” We are considering revising Valentin’s contract.”

For his team, Barco has already started 12 league games. He has also played for his country at the Under-15 and Under-20 levels.

During the summer, the Reds added 13 players, including left-back Nuno Tavares. Ola Aina has been starting in that position on a regular basis since arriving early in the window, despite being normally right-footed. Harry Toffolo is still on the books, and Omar Richards has been loaned out to Olympiacos as he recovers from injury.