The Brazilian international decided to stay in Brazil.
Lucas Lima (L) of Brazil challenges Arquimedes Figuera of Venezuela
Reports in Italy today are suggesting that Crystal Palace were rejected by Brazilian international Lucas Lima on transfer deadline day.
Tutto Mercato Web are reporting that Palace had seen a bid of €15 million (£12.6 million) accepted by his club Santos.
Palace then offered him a lucrative four-year contract as they looked to snap up the attacking midfielder up from under the noses of several top European sides.
However, the 26-year-old decided to reject Palace’s advances as he wanted to remain in Brazil for the time being.
Brazil midfielder Lucas Lima (10) and Peru midfielder Christian Cueva (10) battle for the ball
News of Palace’s interest was reported throughout the transfer window but it was not known they came this close to securing his signature.
The trickster, who has scored two goals in 11 caps for the Brazilian national team, would have been a fantastic signing from Palace as they bid to improve on an indifferent start to the season.
Palace have however signed up big names such as Christian Benteke, Loic Remy and Andros Townsend this summer whilst they managed to hold on to wing wizard Wilfried Zaha.
So whilst missing out on Lima will be seen as a blow, Palace will still be very happy with their summer business.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
