Author: Amrit Santlani
Crystal Palace have officially closed the signing of Brazilian teenager Matheus Franca in a deal valued at £26 million, which includes an initial fee of £17 million from Flamengo and add-ons of £9 million.
Franca, 19, had been attracting interest from all over Europe with his dazzling performances, but the Premier League side acted quickly to sign the Brazilian. The striker signed a five-year contract at Selhurst Park.
Franca made his first-team debut for Flamengo in December 2021 and played just 27 games for the first team, but he impressed Palace on those few occasions. He scored nine goals and is expected to fill the huge gap left by the departure of Wilfried Zaha, who joined Galatasaray after his contract expired.
Palace manager Roy Hodgson is expected to integrate the youngster into the first team, as the Brazil Under-20 star looks to make a smooth transition to the Premier League.
“I hope I can bring good results for the fans, for the other players and for everyone in the team,” Franca told Palace’s website after his presentation. “I’m very excited for my first game here in my new home, doing my best for my new team” he added.
The youngster began his career in 2017, playing for Flamengo’s youth team, before progressing through the ranks and making his first-team debut four years later. He represented Brazil’s U-16 team six times and made a few appearances for the U-20 team as well.
Franca’s sale becomes the latest big-money exit and, although he has a huge release clause, Palace did well to secure a deal under the noses of other European heavyweights.
Franca’s signing further strengthens the squad, as he becomes the second summer arrival after midfielder Jefferson Lerma joined Palace on a free transfer from Bournemouth.
After finishing 11th in the Premier League last season, Hogdson hopes to take the south London club into the top half of the table next campaign. In their first game of the season, Palace will travel to Sheffield United on August 12.