Brighton and Crystal Palace join race for Brazilian midfielder – Textor likely using his connections
Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace have both joined the race for Flamengo youngster Matheus França, according to reports.
It’s Brazilian outlet Radio Itaiaia who today shares an update on this battle, claiming there’s a big interest in the 19-year-old.
The outlet claims that Brighton, Crystal Palace, and Newcastle United all made recent approaches for the player. The Magpies’ interest isn’t new, so that would be Seagulls and Eagles entering the battle.
Itatiaia says that no bids have arrived at Flamengo so far, even though with the opening of the European transfer window, the offers are now ‘expected’.
Recent reports from Brazil have been claiming that the Rio de Janeiro side has been demanding €25m for França’s sale, as they already rejected lower amounts.
It’s no secret Brighton has been doing a great scouting job in South America lately, and the Brazilian is now apparently another youngster who has drawn their attention.
As for Crystal Palace, club share owner John Textor is the owner of Botafogo, also from Rio, and probably used his connections there to get their contacts started for the teenager.
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‘Attack’ – New frontrunner emerges in race to sign Moisés Caicedo as Chelsea, Arsenal and Man United circle
Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United have all held a long-term interest in the Ecuadorian, who expressed his desire to exit the Amex in January.
Albion turned down a reported £70m offer from the Gunners during the winter transfer window.
Arsenal’s interest in the 21-year-old has cooled in recent weeks as the Premier League runners-up look to complete a deal for West Ham United captain Declan Rice.
Mikel Arteta’s side have reportedly submitted a bid worth £105m for Rice. Arsenal’s bid of £100m and £5m in add-ons would equal the British record Treble-winners Manchester City paid for midfielder Jack Grealish in 2021.
Man United, meanwhile, looked to have turned to Caicedo as an alternative for Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount. United has seen three bids turned down for the Cobham Academy graduate, but it is understood the two clubs are prepared to meet this week to thrash out a deal.
This has opened the door for the Blues to pursue a move for Caicedo.
The Times claimed Chelsea was not prepared to meet the £80m valuation set by the Seagulls, but Romano revealed negotiations between the two parties will begin within the next 24-48 hours.
Romano tweeted: “EXCLUSIVE: Chelsea are set to open talks with Brighton for Moisés Caicedo as negotiations between clubs starting within 24/48h. #CFC
“Personal terms, not as an issue — now Chelsea prepared to ‘attack’ the deal.
“Never easy or fast negotiations with Brighton. Chelsea, on it.”
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