In a recent report, Globo Esporte claimed that Newcastle United are ready to move in for Flamengo playmaker Matheus Franca. It has been mentioned that the Magpies are eyeing a move for the Brazilian talent as they look to bolster their attack in the long run.
Franca’s Impressive Rise In Brazilian Football
Franca came through the youth ranks of Flamengo before establishing himself as an important member of their senior team. The 18-year-old has found the back of the net six times in 25 senior appearances for the Brazilian club so far in various competitions.
The gifted attacker has seen most of his game time come off the bench but has caught the eye with his performances on the attacking third of the field as he is averaging 1.4 shots, 0.5 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per game in the Brasileirao. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half after making 77.4% of his attempted passes in the Brazilian top-flight (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Flamengo is set to run out in the summer of 2027. Therefore, the Magpies will have to step up their efforts if they want to sign Franca next year.
Newcastle United Ready To Move In For Franca: Is He A Prospect For The Future?
Franca is a technically gifted footballer who can strike the ball with power and accuracy from long range. He has got the vision to create some decent chances for his teammates in the final third and can make a few good runs with the ball toward the opponent’s penalty box.
The Brazilian sensation is primarily an attacking midfielder but can also fill in as a winger on either flank if his manager tells him to do so. However, he is quite inexperienced at the highest level and might struggle to adapt to the physical nature and high intensity of Premier League football.
At 18, Franca has already established himself as one of the most important members of Flamengo’s senior team. Hence, the Magpies will do well to lure him to St. James’ Park in 2023.
Franca is already good enough to feature in Eddie Howe‘s match-day squad and could go on to prove himself to be a prolific attacker in the coming seasons. However, he is still quite raw and would need time to settle into life at the Tyneside club if Howe can find a way to secure his services.
