There is a clause in Patrick de Paula’s contract accounting for a future move to Premier League outfit Crystal Palace for the new Botafogo midfielder, according to UOL.
But why Crystal Palace?
Doesn’t it seem a little odd that a Rio-born 22-year-old may already be preparing for a future at Selhurst Park, before he’s even stepped foot outside of the Brazilian goldfish bowl?
After all, it seems unlikely that De Paula grew up in South America hoping to become the new Mikele Liegertwood.
So allow us to explain.
De Paula, one of the best midfielders in Brazil, is leaving Palmeiras for Botafogo in a deal worth an initial £5 million. A fee that makes him the most expensive acquisition in Botafogo’s history.
The deal owes much to Botafogo’s links with American businessman John Textor, now an executive on the club’s board. Textor, you may remember, also has a 40 per cent stake in Crystal Palace.
And it’s not exactly uncommon to see two clubs with a shared owner exchange players.
How many footballers have passed from Udinese to Watford, via Granada after all? Manchester City, meanwhile, have farmed plenty of budding youngsters out to sister clubs Troyes, Girona, New York City FC and co over the years.
Will Patrick de Paula end up at Crystal Palace?
So, should De Paula live up to expectations in Botafogo, don’t be surprised if the rangy midfielder ends up swapping one of Textor’s clubs for another.
“Contract amendments were modified. If Patrick de Paula is sold to Crystal Palace, an English club that also belongs to John Textor, Palmeiras will earn another 4 million euros (£3.3 million),” UOL state.
De Paula, a Copa Libertadores winner with Palmeiras, was scouted by Manchester City not so long ago.
The Premier League champions have a habit of signing the most exciting young talent based in South America.
De Paula, who had an £88 million release clause in his contract at the time, certainly ticks that particular box.
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