Valentín Barco, an Argentina under-23 defender, has joined Brighton from Boca Juniors, the club announced on Saturday.
Arriving on the south coast of England, Barco, 19, had a great start to his career in Argentina, helping Boca to the Copa Libertadores final the previous year.
After winning two U23 international caps, he competed for Argentina at the U20 World Cup in June of last year.
According to David Weir, technical director of Brighton, “we have been aware of Valentin for a long time and have been impressed with the progress he has made at domestic and international level.”
“He is an exciting prospect, but we also need to give him the time he needs to adjust to the Premier League and his new surroundings.
“We’re thrilled to welcome him to the club, and we are looking forward to seeing how he progresses and develops under Roberto [de Zerbi].”
Barco is away representing Argentina in Venezuela for the Olympic qualifying tournament for South America, which ends on February 11.
With 31 points from 20 games, Brighton is currently ranked eighth in the Premier League. On Monday, they will host Wolves.
