Albion target Julio Enciso has spoken about the national football idol who is helping him through the early years of his career.

The Seagulls are keen on a deal for Enciso, a forward or attacking midfielder who turns 18 late this month.

Enciso recently played down talk of a move away from top Paraguayan club Libertad, who he joined despite interest from Argentinean giants Boca and River as a 15-year-old.

He has since come under the wing of veteran national team striker Oscar Cardozo, who himself was a big hit in Europe.

Enciso reflected recently on a massive 2021 in which he helped Libertad win the title, played in the semi-final of the Copa Sudamericana and made his international debut.

He also fulfilled a dream when he used his new-found income to buy a house for his parents.

Enciso told D10.ultimahora.com: “Lots of good things have happened to me this year and I try not to focus on or think about a transfer.

“My head is at Libertad and continuing to grow in football.”

Enciso could take advice from Cardozo, who is commonly known by his nickname Tacuara and scored more than 100 goals for Benfica during his time across the Atlantic.

Enciso said: “Tacuara is like my second father. He is always beside me and I really value the fact that a national idol is giving me advice.”

Reports in Paraguay suggest Enciso's future and a possible seven-figure sale will be discussed by Libertad bosses today.