Man City in 'advanced talks' to sign most bought player on Football Manager 24

Manchester City are said to be closing in on a deal to sign the most popular player on Football Manager 24.

City were prolific in the transfer market in the summer, spending £211 million on Mateo Kovacic, Josko Gvardiol, Jeremy Doku and Mateus Nunes.

But they are reportedly keen on Argentine Valentin Barco, who plies his trade with Boca Juniors.

The 19-year-old has a number of clubs queuing up for his signature, with the likes of Newcastle, Brighton, Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund said to have registered interest.

But according to Diario Sport, as per TEAMtalk, City are "very advanced" in their pursuit of Barco, who will soon enter the final year of his contract.

He is believed to be available for a mere £8.7 million due to a release clause in his contract.

Barco has racked up 33 appearances for Boca and helped them reach the Copa Libertadores final where they lost 2-1 to Fluminense.

While primarily a left-back, Barco is incredibly versatile and can also play in midfield and as a winger.

It's claimed that Pep Guardiola is "enchanted" by him but so too are the Football Manager community.

The Sun say that Barco is the most-signed player on this year's game, with attributes like dribbling, bravery, natural fitness and vision making him a must-buy.

City see him as a player who can make the grade in the first-team without the need for a loan move beforehand.

A previous report stated that City had already sent him a diet plan, including details on how he can gain weight to reach their desired mass of at least 70 kilos.

Barco is yet to be capped at senior level for his country but has played for Argentina's Under 20's and is expected to be a full international in the near future.