For the past few weeks, we’ve covered several reports from the Brazilian and Italian press claiming Crystal Palace are interested in Gabriel Barbosa.
It’s been claimed in both countries that the Premier League side would be ready to spend €30m to sign him from Inter Milan.
Gabigol is currently having an impressive loan spell at Flamengo, with the Rio de Janeiro side being one of the contenders to keep him after his loan contract with them expires in December.
Now, according to Fox Sports Brazil, the player has already made a decision, and should be staying in Brazil. Journalist Paulo Lima says Flamengo are paying Inter Milan €22m to sign him permanently.
It’s worth pointing out that not long ago, it was said Gabigol was in no rush to find a new club. With Flamengo on top of the league table and in the Copa Libertadores semifinals, he would wait until the end of the season to open negotiations.
That’s something that makes sense. However, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Crystal Palace being used by Inter Milan just so the Italian side can raise the demands for the striker. That’s an old move which still works in cases like this.
Or would we truly believe Inter are giving up on €8m and Gabigol is rejecting the Premier League just so he can stay in Brazil?
