Crystal Palace reportedly keen on midfielder transfer deal along with Newcastle United

Crystal Palace are reportedly keen on snapping up Flamengo midfielder Matheus Franca this summer. The Eagles are believed to have identified the highly-rated youngster as a potential summer addition.

According to a report by The Sun, the prospect has emerged on the Eagles’ radar ahead of the next transfer window but is also wanted by fellow Premier League side Newcastle United. He is said to have a ‘buy-out’ clause in his current contract.

Crystal Palace may see the 19-year-old as a decent long-term option in the middle of the park and someone to inject more quality into their midfield department. The London club are safe now in the top flight after an upturn in results under Roy Hodgson and have a big decision to make on who to appoint as their next boss on a permanent basis.

Franca joined Flamengo when he was 12 and has since risen up through the academy ranks there. He was a regular for them at various youth levels before breaking into their first-team back in 2021.

The Brazil youth international has since become an established member of the senior squad and made 45 appearances in all competitions, chipping in with eight goals. His current deal expires in 2027 meaning his side are under no pressure to sell unless his price tag is met.

Crystal Palace are back in action next weekend against Tottenham Hotspur away before finishing the campaign with fixtures against Bournemouth, Fulham and Nottingham Forest. Franca will be one of many players linked with a switch to Selhurst Park before this term ends.