Newcastle United have approached Flamengo to avail the service of midfielder Matheus Franca in this transfer window.
As per Goal, Newcastle United have offered a sum of €16 million for Flamengo midfielder Matheus Franca. But the Brazilian club will likely turn down their bid. Flamengo have slapped a €20 million price tag on the player.
The 18-year-old is the latest Brazilian to have attracted interest from several clubs. Newcastle have a longstanding interest in the player and will look to execute a move this month. And the Magpies have already submitted an offer worth €16 million for the youngster.
Eddie Howe wants to prioritise at least a midfielder and a winger to bolster his top-four ambitions. Predominantly an attacking midfielder, the teenager can also be effective on the left flank, while he is also very fluent as a centre-forward.
Franca had a breakout season last term, notching up four goals in 17 matches. He is regarded as one of the most promising talents in recent years, as he has been likened to Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior who also hails from the same academy.
His trickery on the pitch has also invited attention from Lyon. The French giants are believed to be avid admirers of the youngster and would definitely use all their resources to get a deal done in their favour.
Newcastle have been playing pretty smartly in the transfer market. They have identified their loopholes and have been working behind the scene tirelessly to upgrade their current squad. Franca has the potential to shine if he gets the proper care and guidance.
He reportedly has a €100 million release clause in his contract. But that sum will get a hefty reduction as clubs will try to negotiate a deal. Bayer Leverkusen tried their advances with a €14 million offer, but the Brazilian giants were not willing to entertain their plea. And Flamengo will demand €20 million to part ways with Franca.
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Newcastle United will have to raise their offer if they really want to fend off competition from others. They have been on a dream run. And judging by their recent run of form, they are very much on their way to the UEFA Champions League.
