Crystal Palace “set to sign” Brazil wonderkid as Wilfried Zaha replacement

Crystal Palace fans have reason to be excited, as it’s believed they are closing in on their newest transfer. The aim for Roy Hodgson has been to replace one of the biggest names in the club’s history, Wilfried Zaha. Certainly they are big boots to fill, but Hodgson seems to have found his successor.

Crystal Palace are “set to sign” Matheus Franca

According to the trusted transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Palace are now “set to sign” the 19-year-old Brazilian wonderkid Matheus Franca from Flamengo. Born in 2004, the 19-year-old prodigy is believed to be the next big thing in Brazil, but now it’s time to hone his craft in the English capital.

For Crystal Palace, their aim for next season is the same as it’s always been – To avoid another season of mid-table mediocrity. With the right signings (Franca is certainly one of them) this is an achievable task should Hodgson set his sights on it.

According to Romano, the deal is a done deal and a medical has been booked in for the latest Selhurst Park arrival. Now, Hodgson can start to plan how he wishes to use Franca within his setup.

Like Zaha, Franca is a versatile forward. It is difficult to pinpoint his natural position, but it could work in Palace’s favour. Certainly he likes to play as an attacking midfielder, but he has also been used as a right winger and centre forward too.

Given that Palace could lose Michael Olise, bringing in a versatile, energetic and young forward is of key significance to Hodgson. This one’s a done deal.

What do you think of Crystal Palace’s new signing?