According to Globo Esporte, Crystal Palace are now helping Botafogo to sign Eran Zahavi, who Neil Lennon nearly brought to Celtic.
What’s the story?
Well, John Textor – co-owner of Crystal Palace – recently became the majority shareholder of Botafogo.
Now, Dougie Freedman – Director of Football at Crystal Palace – is helping the Brazilian giants sign the Israel international.
It comes after Lennon revealed back in October that he nearly brought Zahavi to Celtic Park, but an agreement could not be found.
The 50-year-old told the Daily Record: “Eran Zahavi was one (I tried to sign). I really liked him. He is a good striker, an icon, influences the other members of the team. But we never managed to reach an agreement with him.”
Now, the south Londoners could help seal Zahavi’s move to Brazil.
It would be a fantastic signing for Botafogo, as the 34-year-old has been in tremendous form for PSV Eindhoven this season.
In 37 appearances, Zahavi has scored 16 goals, while also providing ten assists.
Despite his age, he is showing no signs of slowing down.
Crystal Palace could benefit from Botafogo agreement
Things like this could go a long way for Crystal Palace.
Freedman has already proven himself to be a fantastic Sporting Director, having overseen the signings of Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Marc Guèhi, to name a few.
The Scot also completed bargain deals for Vicente Guaita, Odsonne Edouard, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Joachim Andersen.
By helping the Brazilian giants, Crystal Palace could receive a favour or two from Botafogo in future.
For one, the South American outfit have some tremendous players who Freedman could potentially pinch one day, such as Real Madrid target Matheus Nascimento.
Hopefully, Freedman is successful in his attempts to bring Zahavi to Brazil.
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