Crystal Palace are on the verge of completing the signing of Matheus Franca, a 19-year-old Brazilian midfielder, from Flamengo for a reported fee of £26 million.
The talented player, who is a Brazil Under-20 international, has been on Palace’s radar for some time and recently underwent a medical with the club. Franca has showcased his abilities in 29 appearances for Flamengo this season, scoring three goals.
The Eagles have high hopes that Franca will be able to fill the void left by the departure of Wilfried Zaha, their 30-year-old talisman who moved to Galatasaray.
Franca’s journey in football began at Flamengo as a young player, progressing through their youth teams until he made his senior debut in December 2021. With a primary role as an attacking midfielder, he has amassed a total of 54 appearances for Flamengo.
During this season, Franca contributed with one goal in nine league games as Flamengo currently stands in second place in Brazil’s top flight, trailing Botafogo by 12 points after 17 matches.
The young midfielder will become Crystal Palace’s second signing of the summer, with Colombia midfielder Jefferson Lerma having arrived from Bournemouth on a free transfer.
