Barcelona, Real Madrid & Man City target Mina won't be available until 2018, claims agent

Clubs tracking Palmeiras centre-half Yerry Mina will have to wait at least another 12 months before doing a deal, the defender’s agent has claimed.

The 22-year-old is among the most sought-after talents in South American football at present.

Barcelona were reported to have an agreement in place at one stage, but nothing has been pushed through.

That has kept the door ajar for rivals to make their move, with Real Madrid and Manchester City said to be among those ready to pounce.

Mina, though, is in no hurry to head for Europe, according to his representative.

The Colombia international is prepared to keep his suitors waiting until 2018 in order to aid Palmeira’s bid for Copa Libertadores glory – with the final of that competition not due to take place until November.

Jairo Mina told UOL Esporte: "Yerry will play the Copa Libertadores and the rest of the tournaments with Palmeiras. He will be at the club in 2017."

He added: "The offers we have received have been rejected."

Mina has only been on the books at Palmeiras since May, having been snapped up by the Brazilian outfit from Santa Fe.

He is still relatively inexperienced, with a little over 160 competitive club outings to his name, but his rapid development has helped to enhance his reputation and he already has five senior caps for his country.