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 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 have been demanding €25m for França’s sale, as they already rejected lower amounts.

It’s no secret Brighton have 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.