Boca Juniors prospect Valentin Barco, in whom Albion have a confirmed interest, could yet feature in a crucial Copa Libertadores tie next week.

The 19-year-old went off injured in the first leg against Racing this week, having been arguably his side’s best player to that point.

He was diagnosed with a hip muscle injury but reports from Buenos Aires have suggested he could yet be fit for the return fixture.

The first leg of the quarter-final finished goalless, leaving Barco’s dream of helping Boca to glory in South America’s most prestigious club knockout under threat.

Barco has said he wants to stay with the club at least until the end of their current Libertadores run.

Club vice-president Juan Roman Riquelme gave some insight into Barco’s character in an interview yesterday.

Riquelme said: “He is a cheeky lad. We are here to accompany and take care of the boys.

“For them it is a dream to be training every day with players like (Dario) Benedetto, (Marcos) Rojo, (Edinson) Cavani, (Sergio) Romero.

“They have to learn from the greatest because it will help them a lot.

“Barco is a technically very good player and we are very happy to have him with us.”