Chelsea face transfer competition from Prem rivals as they try to get bargain for Brazilian wonderkid Matheus Franca

CHELSEA are facing competition from Crystal Palace for Brazilian wonderkid Matheus Franca.

The Blues have been in talks over a potential deal for the 19-year-old midfielder.

However, Palace are also interested in signing the youngster according to reports in Brazil.

Globo report that the Eagles have now made proposals to Franca ahead of an official approach.

Flamengo value Franca at around £22million, with the report adding that the player wants to move to the Premier League this summer.

Chelsea are already in negotiations to sign Franca, having seen their initial approach knocked back by the Copa Libertadores champions.

It had been thought the Blues' talks were progressing well.

But Palace may now throw a spanner in the works.

Mauricio Pochettino's side are said to be hoping to do a deal for £17million, despite Flamengo's asking price.

Their interest in Franca comes as they edge closer to signing fellow Brazilian Angelo from Santos for £13million.

Franca, who was linked with Newcastle United back in January, is a Brazilian youth international.

Although he did not appear at the Under-20 World Cup earlier this summer, he has impressed at club level.

The teenager has scored nine goals from midfield in 54 appearances since making his Flamengo debut aged 17 back in 2021.

He has also already won the Copa do Brasil as well as the Copa Libertadores with the Brazilian giants.