Brighton step up Leonel Flores interest after rapid Boca Juniors breakthrough

Brighton are reportedly preparing an offer for Boca Juniors teenager Leonel Flores after continuing to track his rapid development in Argentina.

The Seagulls were first linked with Flores in July, when the 19-year-old was only beginning to establish himself at senior level. Two months later, he is a Boca starter and has received his first opportunity to train with Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina squad.

According to El Intransigente, Brighton are now preparing a proposal, although negotiations remain at an early stage and Boca have not yet received a formal offer.

Flores developed primarily as a centre-forward in Boca’s academy, scoring 19 goals across 51 reserve appearances.

His senior role has been different.

Manager Rodolfo Arruabarrena has predominantly deployed him from the right wing, although Flores is also capable of operating from the opposite flank.

The teenager has responded with two goals and three assists from his first 16 senior appearances.

His recent contributions have also arrived in significant matches. Flores created Boca’s equaliser against São Paulo during their Copa Sudamericana quarter-final before providing another assist in a 2-0 league victory over San Lorenzo.

That progression has now earned recognition from Scaloni, who has invited Flores to train with Argentina’s senior squad while he remains available for Boca.

Brighton are not alone in monitoring Flores.

Aston Villa, Tottenham and City Football Group have all previously been credited with interest, increasing the possibility of competition should Boca eventually become willing to negotiate.

There is also conflicting information surrounding the youngster’s release clause.

Previous reports placed it at approximately €13million (£11.3m), while El Intransigente now claims it stands at around €17m (£14.8m), increasing to approximately €21m (£18.3m) when the Argentine transfer window is closed.

Flores remains contracted until December 2029 and Boca reportedly want to continue his development rather than encourage a sale.

Brighton’s position nevertheless appears to have developed considerably. What began as scouting interest in July has now reportedly progressed towards preparing an offer for one of Boca’s emerging talents.

Brighton’s next move will determine whether their long-standing interest develops into formal negotiations with Boca.

Boca are not actively looking to sell Flores, meaning the size and structure of any Brighton proposal — as well as the exact terms of his release clause — could become decisive.