Crystal Palace have signed Brazilian attacker Matheus Franca on a five-year deal from Flamengo, subject to international clearance.
The teenager becomes Palace’s second senior summer signing after Jefferson Lerma.
A Palace statement read: "Renowned for his flair, physicality, high work rate and tenacious mentality, the 19-year-old is widely considered one of the most exciting attacking players in Brazil and, indeed, world football."
From South America to South London. pic.twitter.com/jIwjunDH9n
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) August 5, 2023
"I’m very happy to be here. I hope I can bring good results for our supporters, for the other players and everybody else in the team," Franca told the club's official website.
“I’m very excited for my first game here at my new home, giving my best for my new team. I hope all the supporters are happy with me coming here. I bet it is going to be good for all of us.”
In 2022, Franca helped Flamengo win both the Copa Libertadores and Copa do Brasil. He scored nine goals in 54 matches for his club, and made his Under-20 international debut last year.
Palace chairman Steve Parish said: "Matheus is a young and exciting player whose impressive early progress we have followed with keen interest, and we are delighted to welcome him to the club.
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“Palace have a long history of attacking players with skill, pace, and tenacity, and I am sure Matheus will be another popular addition to the nucleus of this young and entertaining squad, packed full of international talent and potential, that we are building here in south London.”
The Eagles conclude their pre-season friendlies today against Lyon before they start their Premier League campaign at Sheffield United on Saturday 12 August.
