Crystal Palace ‘keen’ on attacker deal ahead of the summer window

Crystal Palace have reportedly identified Flamengo youngster Matheus Franca as a potential replacement for Wilfried Zaha this summer. The Eagles are preparing for another year in the Premier League after staying up last season under Roy Hodgson.

The Athletic claim the Eagles have been ‘keen’ on the forward for ‘most’ of this campaign. The 19-year-old is being tipped for a bright future in the game and is a Brazil international.

Zaha is still facing an uncertain future at Crystal Palace with his contract up at the end of the month. An offer of an extension is on the table for the former Manchester United man but he is still mulling over it amid links to other clubs.

Franca, who hails from Rio de Janeiro, could be seen as a long-term replacement. He has made 27 appearances for Flamengo so far in his career and has chipped in with seven goals. His deal runs until 2027 meaning a transfer fee would be required in order to lure him away from his native country this summer.

In other Crystal Palace news, they have been keeping tabs on Central Coast Mariners defender Nectarios Triantis, as per the Daily Mail. However, Championship side Sunderland are also believed to be keen on landing his signature.

Young attacker Rob Street, who spent last term on loan at Shrewsbury Town in League One to get some experience, has emerged on the radar of St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership. That’s according to the Daily Record.