Since the ownership change last year, Chelsea are investing heavily in youth prospects, signing some of the most promising youngsters on the planet. Todd Boehly has not shied away from signing potential stars of tomorrow with Matheus Franca being the latest youngster linked to Chelsea.
Last season, CFC have signed more than 10 youngsters under 21 years of age like Carney Chukwuemeka, Andrey Santos, Cesare Casadei, David Datro Fofana, Noni Madueke, Malo Gusto and others. This summer the Blues signed 18 year old Diego Moreira on a free transfer, meanwhile also completing the deal for 16 year old Kendry Paez, who will remain at Independiente until 2025. Ishe Samuels-Smith has been signed from Everton as CFC continue to sign promising talent on a large scale. 18 year old Brazilian forward Angelo Gabriel is expected to arrive at Chelsea in the coming weeks.
The Blues continue to scout exceptional talent not only across Europe but also in South America. Brazil is one of the hot beds for emerging talent and Chelsea do not want to miss out on getting their hands on the next Neymar Jr, Ronaldinho, or Kaka. Flamengo attacking midfielder Franca is certainly attracting a lot of interest from several clubs.
Chelsea will not make a bid for Flamengo youngster Matheus Franca
Chelsea were one of the sides following Franca and were one of the sides pursuing the deal for 19 year old. However, the latest update in Franca’s pursuit is not too encouraging for Chelsea fans. According to Brazilian journalist Vene Casagrande, Chelsea are no longer interested in submitting an offer for Franca. As per the journalist, CFC were unhappy with the news being leaked about their interest in Franca and are now not planning to make an offer.
Franca has a release clause of €200 million, which is till now the highest clause set for any player in Flamengo’s history. However, it is clear, no side will be paying such a huge sum of money for a 19 year old who is relatively unproven in Europe. Crystal Palace have submitted an offer of €15 million with payment being made in three installments.
According to football.london, Newcastle United made a bid of £13.5 million which was rejected by Flamengo. The Brazilian club who have prodcyed gems like Vinicius Jr and Lucas Paqueta in recent years are demanding around £21.4 million for Franca. At this point, Chelsea have pulled out of the race but Franca remains one of the most promising youngsters emerging from Brazil.
Should CFC still make a bid for Matheus Franca?