19-year-old Barcelona left-back target on his way to Manchester City

Barcelona have already started chalking out plans and strategies for the summer transfer window of 2024 with key areas of the squad that need reinforcements already being notified.

One such position that the Blaugrana wish to strengthen next year is the left-back slot.

Alejandro Balde is the undisputed first-choice starter in the position with Marcos Alonso being the backup option.

However, the veteran Spaniard’s contract expires at the end of the season, which would leave an opening in the roster.

Valentin Barco was a target, but will join Man City

As such, Barcelona have been monitoring the market for possible candidates to reinforce the left-back position, reports SPORT.

One of the names that the La Liga champions took an interest was Boca Juniors left-back Valentin Barco.

The 19-year-old talent, who can play in any position along the left flank, has made 27 senior appearances for the Argentine giants, scoring a goal and assisting three more.

Barcelona had been tracking Barco for a while, as his contract with Boca Juniors expires at the end of December 2024.

However, all signs point towards the 19-year-old signing for Premier League and European champions Manchester City.

Indeed, the report suggests that the Cityzens are set to land the youngster for a small fee in the near future, with Barco being keen on joining a team where he can be a regular starter – something which cannot be guaranteed at Barça due to Balde’s presence.

Other options for Barcelona

Apart from Barco, Barcelona are also looking at Chelsea youngster Ian Maatsen, whose contract expires at the end of the current season.

Meanwhile, Alex Valle, who is on loan at Levante from Barça, is seen as an in-house solution while the possibility of handing a new contract to Alonso is not ruled out either, provided he agrees to take a wage cut.