The 17-year-old midfield talent Ezequiel Barco is emerging through the ranks of Independiente and is already attracting plenty of interest.

The highly-rated youngster has broken into the senior side at the Argentine powerhouse this season, having thus far made 14 appearances in the Primera Division and scored one goal for his club.

Ezequiel Barco caught the eye playing for Argentina U-20s at the Sudamericano U-20 where he took part in eight games for his side.

His skilful style of play and imposing performance both for club and country did not escape the eye of the scouts and according to reports from the Portugal daily Abola, an investment group is already making steps to purchase his contract for $6 million and forward him to Benfica.

Independiente management is unlikely to let Ezequiel Barco leave at the end of the season as the Argentine club are confident his price will become significantly higher after the U-20 World Cup which is set to be played this summer.

Portugal heavyweights Benfica are known as a successful farming ground for young talents and a club which has seen a number of today’s world stars go through their academy.

The Eagles have an excellent scouting service which picks on the very best talent worldwide and Ezequiel Barco is just the latest name in the line.

Benfica were eliminated from the Champions League at the hands of Borussia Dortmund and are now shifting their focus to Primeira Liga where they are topping the charts after 25 rounds.

Rui Vitoria’s men are only one point in front of their bitter rivals Porto and will have to work hard not to drop any points at Pacos Ferreira on Saturday.

Benfica can be found at 2.00 (1/1) @Coral to record a HT/FT win and boost their morals significantly prior to the international break.