Valentín Barco

Valentín Barco (born 23 July 2004) is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a left-back or wide midfielder for club Brighton & Hove Albion.

Barco was included in The Guardian's "Next Generation" list for 2021.

Born in Veinticinco de Mayo, Barco started his career with Sportivo Las Parejas at the age of three.

Six years later, he was scouted and immediately signed by Argentine team Boca Juniors.

On 16 July 2021, he made his professional debut, aged 16, in a 1–1 draw against Unión.

On 29 June 2023, he scored his first goal for the club in a 4–0 win over Monagas in the Copa Libertadores.

Less than a month later on 24 July, he scored his first league goal in a 2–1 win against Newell's Old Boys after converting a cross from Pol Fernández.

On 20 January 2024, Barco transferred to English Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee, reported to be around $10 million (€9.1 million), signing a four-and-a-half year contract until 30 June 2028.

On 28 February 2024, he made his debut for the club, coming on as a substitute in a FA Cup fifth round tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Barco has been capped for Argentina's U15, U20, and U23 youth national teams.

Barco has been described as one of Argentina's most exciting youth prospects.

He normally plays as a marauding full-back who can make forward runs and create chances for his teammates.

He has also been noted for his versatility, having played as a winger.