Newcastle United remains keen on signing Matheus Franca even with Crystal Palace seemingly closing in.
That is according to The Sun, who claim that Eddie Howe is a ‘big admirer’ of Franca.
It’s stated that Newcastle made not one, not two but three bids to sign Franca in January.
Newcastle allegedly offered £ 11.5 million, £ 12 million, and £ 14 million for Franca but Flamengo rejected those bids.
The Magpies haven’t ended their interest in Franca just yet with Howe still keen to bring him to St James’ Park.
The problem for Newcastle is that Crystal Palace are moving forward with their interest in Franca.
It’s suggested that Palace is prepared to offer around £ 15 million to try and secure Franca’s signature.
The Daily Mail adds that Palace’s talks to sign Franca are ‘intensifying’ and Flamengo would like a deal worth around £ 30 million.
Palace would be willing to offer £ 20 million plus add-ons and the Eagles would like to secure a deal soon.
Who is Newcastle United’s target, Matheus Franca?
Franca has become one of the top young talents in Brazilian football with Flamengo.
The 19-year-old has already made 46 appearances for Flamengo’s first team and is being backed for a huge future.
Franca has bagged eight goals in that time, showing big potential as a number 10.
Hailed as a ‘great finisher’ in front of goal, Franca could become a real star for Brazil in the coming years.
Newcastle and Palace may well sense a bargain if they can convince Flamengo to sell for a few miles away from his release clause.
Fabrizio Romano reported in February that Franca’s new contract includes a release clause worth around €200million (£ 176 million).
Flamengo won’t be receiving that kind of money but Franca may well be a Premier League player next season.
