Chelsea are now ramping up their interest in signing Flamengo teenager Matheus Franca amid links to Newcastle United.
Matheus Franca could end up in the Premier League after all with Chelsea now chasing a deal for the Brazilian ace.
That’s according to the Daily Mail, who claim that Chelsea are looking at a deal worth around £25million for Franca.
Chelsea are pouncing to sign one Brazilian talent in Angelo as the Sao Paulo wide man nears a move to London.
The Blues could land another Brazilian prospect though with Franca wanted at Stamford Bridge.
Fabrizio Romano adds that there is no bid on the table just yet but talks are now imminent.
Romano believes the fee will be a little lower though, around €20million to €25million (£17million to £21.5million).
Romano also notes that Newcastle were keen on signing Franca in January but it’s Chelsea who could now win the race.
Don’t be surprised if Newcastle return for Matheus Franca
The Newcastle links to Franca have been going on for a while now.
The Reports: Chelsea are now chasing Brazilian talent after three failed Newcastle bids in JanuarySun claimed in May that Newcastle would be chasing a deal to sign Franca in the summer.
It was suggested that Newcastle made three bids worth around £11.5million, £12million and £14million for Franca in January.
Flamengo rejected all three and that seems to be a good decision with the Brazilian side in line to earn more now.
Newcastle may still be keeping very close tabs on the situation and could yet rival Chelsea for Franca’s signature.
Franca, 19, is a talented attacking midfielder – the kind of profile Newcastle need having chosen not to go for James Maddison.
Franca has managed 53 first-team appearances for Flamengo, scoring nine goals along the way.
Chelsea will probably want to sign Franca and then loan him out, but don’t rule out Newcastle making a late move to lure the Brazilian to St James’ Park after all.
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