The most-signed player in Football Manager 2024 close to Man City move after representatives spotted visiting training facility

The most-signed player in Football Manager 2024 is on the verge of joining reigning Premier League champions Manchester City, according to reports, with a move likely to happen in January.

Back in October, those behind the scenes at Sports Interactive – the creators of Football Manager – gave fans an insight into the most popular players in week one of FM 24's early access.

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen featured in the top ten list alongside Manchester United transfer target Jean-Clair Todibo and Copenhagen forward Roony Bardghji, who has been strongly linked with a move to Chelsea this week.

Benfica's Antonio Silva and Leeds winger Wilfried Gnonto also made an appearance but it was highly-rated full-back Valentin Barco that came out on top.

In fact, Boca Juniors defender Barco was once again the most-signed player in week two of the early access period.

Most Signed Players: Week Two 🤝

Some fresh names have entered the list 🆕​#FM24EarlyAccess pic.twitter.com/GiTzS3a9W2

— Football Manager (@FootballManager) November 3, 2023

Barco, who has been one of Boca's standout players since making his debut in 2021, is also being tracked in real life by a number of top European clubs, including Manchester City.

In fact, the Citizens are eager to make a deal happen, with Barco's representatives visiting the club’s training facility this week.

That's according to a new report from Football Transfers, who suggest a deal is likely to take place in January as Pep Guardiola wants to strengthen his options on the left side ahead of next year.

So how much will City pay for the Argentina U20 international? Barco currently has a release clause of just €10 million [£8.5m] – a steal considering his impressive campaign in 2022/23, where he made 26 appearances in all competitions.

The above report also claims Barco has been 'extensively tracked' by City's proven recruitment team this year.

Semi-final of the Copa Libertadores and the mercurial Valentín Barco does this. The brilliant arrogance of a youth with the world at his feet. The 19 year old Boca Juniors baller is my kind of No. 10 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/3vtEMNIuUq

— Stoppage Time FC (@Stoppagetime_fc) October 6, 2023

Earlier this year, former Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero gave a rave review of the highly-rated full-back.

"He plays well," Aguero said on a live stream. "Very good player. Is he going to last a little longer with Boca or not? I don't think it will last long. He is very good. City will surely take him."