Who is Matheus Franca? The €25m Brazilian wonderkid wanted by Chelsea

Updated: 4 Jul 2023 07:52 CDT
3 min read

Chelsea target Matheus Franca — © ProShots

Chelsea are interested in Flamengo starlet Matheus Franca. What else is there to know about the Brazilian prodigy?

Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly has made it his mission to realise a 'Vision 2030' at Stamford Bridge, whereby the club recruit the best young talent in the world, and that looks set to continue with Franca.

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According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea and Flamengo will resume talks this week on a transfer which could reach up to €25 million for the Brazil under-20 international. FootballTransfers takes a closer look…

READ: Matheus Franca's FootballTransfers' overview

What position does Franca play in?

Franca has been used as a striker since Jorge Sampaoli took charge of Flamengo in April, but he has played primarily as an attacking midfielder for the majority of his still-young career.

How good is Franca?

Franca technique and quick decision makes him a joy to behold, whether playing between the lines of on the shoulder of the last defender.

He helped Flamengo to a continental double of Copa do Brasil and Copa Libertadores in 2022, and although his minutes remain restricted, he still contributed eight goals and three assists in all competitions.

Franca has a SciSkill Potential of 94.8 pr FootballTransfers' official partner SciSports, which would take his ability beyond Enzo Fernandez's current one of 87.3, and he is regarded as Flamengo's most promising academy graduate since Real Madrid ace Vinicius Junior.

Matheus Franca is a SERIOUS talent.

Technically a lot better than Gabri Veiga, and a lot more Work-Rate than Rayan Cherki.

Great Finishing & Shooting, Good Dribbler, Strong, Creative. He won't be loaned to Strasbourg.

Matheus Franca is ready to play First Team for Chelsea. pic.twitter.com/amREotAWJf
— AzM (@CFCAzM) July 4, 2023

READ: Chelsea Transfers: Five in, EIGHTEEN out on day of MAYHEM

What clubs are interested in Franca

Real and Manchester City were both linked with a move for Franca last summer, while Newcastle sent scouts to watch him over the winter transfer window, but it now seems like Chelsea will win the race for his signature.

When does Franca's contract expire?

Franca's current contract at the Maracana runs until 31 December 2027. He will receive a contract almost twice as long if he moves to Chelsea if recent arrivals in West London are anything to go by.