Crystal Palace are now expected to make a bid for Newcastle target Matheus Franca at the end of the season.
What’s the story?
Well – according to Globo Esporte – Crystal Palace have been scouting the Flamengo No.42 this term, and there is an expectation that an offer will arrive from the south Londoners.
It comes after Fabrizio Romano claimed that Newcastle failed with a £17.5m bid for Franca in January.
It is said that the Brazil Under-20 international has a release clause worth €200m (£176m) written into his contract with Flamengo, which he signed back in February to commit himself until 2027.
However, that was seemingly to ensure Flamengo were not disadvantaged financially, with Mauro Sant Anna – a South American journalist – claiming that Franca is highly likely to be sold this summer.
The 19-year-old has scored two goals in 18 appearances so far this season.
Globo Esporte offer some encouragement to Crystal Palace by writing that Selhurst Park would be a strong destination for Franca to announce himself in Europe.
Crystal Palace will struggle to fend off Newcastle
In our view, Crystal Palace will find it hard to beat Newcastle to Franca’s signature.
The Magpies have a much larger budget than the Eagles, while they also look likely to offer their targets the chance to play Champions League football next season – Newcastle currently sit fourth in the Premier League.
Furthermore, Eddie Howe already has the likes of Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes at St James’ Park, two fellow Brazilians who could help Franca settle on Tyneside – in comparison, Crystal Palace have no South American players.
With all of the above taken into account, the odds are stacked against Crystal Palace, with plenty going in Newcastle’s favour.
Nevertheless, anything can happen in the transfer market, so be sure to keep an eye on Franca’s situation.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
