La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid are reportedly ready to launch an offensive for Brazilian wonderkid Matheus Franca, valued at €38 million by Flamengo.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Matheus Franca could be the next Brazilian sensation to join Real Madrid. The Merengues are prepared to make their move for the teenage prodigy, valued at around €38 million by Flamengo.
Matheus Franca is one of the brightest young prospects in Brazil, producing stunning displays in age-group football in his homeland. A central midfielder by trade, the 17-year-old has been impressive with his ability to score goals from the middle of the park while also providing a physical presence in duels.
The Brazilian wonderkid can also play on the flanks, suggesting he could be moulded into a winger, depending on the needs of the club he joins. Franca has already made his Flamengo first-team bow, turning out four times for the Brazilian club. His exploits have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid among his prospective suitors.
The Spanish giants are renowned for their forays into the Brazilian market to unearth gems that could serve them well in the long term. This approach has most recently fetched Real Madrid players like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo Goes, with the former becoming a pivotal figure for Los Blancos.
The Merengues continue to have scouts spread across Brazil to find bright prospects, with Endrick emerging as one of their key targets lately. Apart from the teenage attacking sensation, several other Brazilian wonderkids have popped up on Real Madrid’s radar, including Matheus Franca.
While Franca can play out wide, Real Madrid could well sign him as a long-term central midfield solution, considering Luka Modric and Toni Kroos are reaching the final phases of their careers. As per the report, Los Blancos could soon approach Flamengo with an offer, with the Brazilian club seeking €38 million for the 17-year-old.
With Franca set to turn 18 next month, Real Madrid might not have to wait long before acquiring his services for good. Like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo before him, he could play a transitional season with Real Madrid Castilla before joining the first team, giving Real Madrid the chance to gradually phase Modric and Kroos out.
