Emerging Argentina and River Plate centre midfielder Exequiel Palacios is set to be watched by a leading Barcelona scout, according to reports.

Palacios, 20, has grown into an important player for club and country during 2018/19. He’s gained two caps for Argentina since September’s debut versus Guatemala, plus has been a regular starter for Marcelo Gallardo’s River.

Mundo Deportivo have stated that Ramon Planes, assistant to technical secretary Eric Abidal, will scout the youngster in the midweek Copa Libertadores semi-final clash with Brazil’s Gremio. This will form part of an extended mission to South America, that will also include Wednesday’s Boca Juniors v Palmeiras tie in the same competition.

Palacios has scored three times in 27 league matches for River.