Real Madrid News
Real Madrid, Man City face fresh Premier League competition for 18-year-old prodigy
Real Madrid have been paying serious attention to the Brazilian market over the past years for the next best talent coming through in the South American nation.
Having tasted success with the signings of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo Goes, Real Madrid also brought in Reinier Jesus and are already working on a deal for 16-year-old Palmeiras sensation, Endrick.
Now, the Daily Mail is reporting that Real Madrid have another Brazilian prodigy on their radars in the form of Matheus Franca. However, the 18-year-old is also being tracked by Manchester City, while more recently, Crystal Palace have also entered the race.
A product of the Flamengo academy, Franca made his senior debut for the club in December last year and has since gone on to make 25 appearances, in which he has scored six goals.
An attacking midfielder by trade, the 18-year-old is capable of playing on the left flank or even as a centre-forward.
Franca signed a new contract with Flamengo in June earlier this year, committing his future to the club until the summer of 2027. The deal is said to consist of a massive release clause worth €100 million.
Real Madrid have already raided Flamengo twice in the recent past for the captures of Vinicius and Reinier. And Franca has emerged as the next possible target for the Spanish and European champions.
However, there is increased competition for the 18-year-old’s signing, with Manchester City, Bayer Leverkusen and even Manchester United said to be keen.
Crystal Palace are also interested in the Brazilian prodigy and have even made enquiries for his signing. In fact, the report claims that the Eagles would be willing to pay £15 million (€17 million) and a future sell-on percentage for the 18-year-old.
It remains to be seen if Real Madrid react to Crystal Palace’s move and make their own push for Franca or decide to pass up on his signing.
As Real Madrid look to restart the campaign following the end of the international break, all focus will be on the upcoming El Clasico in Copa del Rey on April 5.
However, before they take on their arch-rivals for a fourth time this year, Real Madrid must see off the challenge from Real Valladolid in La Liga on Sunday.
Given Barcelona’s 12-point advantage at the top of the table, La Liga appears to be a lost cause for Real Madrid right now. But that is no excuse for Carlo Ancelotti’s men to appear complacent, as they look to push for a late title charge.
However, heading into this contest, three Real Madrid players proceed with caution as they are running the risk of missing out on the next league game against Villarreal due to yellow cards.
The three players in question are Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Carvajal, and Dani Ceballos. All three of these players have picked up four yellow cards in La Liga this term. Therefore, picking up another booking against Valladolid will rule them out in the next game.
Camavinga, in particular, has been a vital part of the Real Madrid squad since the turn of the year, impressing onlookers with his performances and versatility.
Carvajal, too, is a critical option at right-back and his experience could go a long way in helping Real Madrid end the league campaign on a positive note. Not to mention, the club lack the services of a reliable alternative, which has led to links with Reece James this coming summer.
Ceballos, on the other hand, has been one of the emerging stars this year. The midfielder’s performances have been excellent lately, and he would not want to lose any momentum by picking up a suspension ahead of the important Villarreal game next week.
