Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Chelsea are now about to miss out on signing Brazilian youngster Matheus Franca.
He took to Twitter to state that documents are currently being exchanged for a move that will see him make the move to Crystal Palace instead.
It had been claimed that the Blues were considering a deal for Franca this summer as part of their quota to continue to sign the world’s most promising players.
They have already been busy with that this summer. Deals for Angelo Gabriel and Kendry Paez amongst others have been confirmed this summer.
Todd Boehly has been keen for his side to consistently bring in young stars since he came in just over a year ago. Some of the key additions have been Andrey Santos and Cesare Casadei.
The duo have been very noticeable in pre-season for Chelsea this summer, racking up plenty of minutes in the Premier League Summer Series.
However, one player who now doesn’t look set to join them as the next big stars in West London is Franca, who was recently described as a ‘gem’ by the Athletic.
Franca set for Crystal Palace move
Romano has claimed that fellow Premier League side Crystal Palace have agreed a deal to sign the youngster.
He said: “Crystal Palace are set to sign Brazilian talent Matheus França! Documents are being exchanged between clubs — here we go.
“Understand Flamengo will receive €20m fixed fee plus €10m in add-ons.”
Roy Hodgson’s side spending big on an attacking player could be a sign that they are potentially expecting to lose Michael Olise this summer.
The Frenchman has been strongly linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this summer, and they may be resigned to the fact that a big move is coming his way.
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