Newcastle United could begin to start "looking at the Brazilian market" more with highly-rated teenager Matheus Franca a potential target, journalist Ryan Taylor has told GIVEMESPORT.
At just 18 years old, Franca is expected to enjoy a successful career in football despite having made less than 30 senior appearances for Flamengo.
Newcastle transfer news - Matheus Franca
Shrewd operators in the transfer market since the £300 million Saudi-backed takeover was completed, Newcastle have spent wisely while also welcoming some top talents to the North East. Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes arrived at the club during last year's January transfer window, whereas club-record signing Alexander Isak joined from Real Sociedad in the summer.
Looking to establish themselves among England's elite clubs, Eddie Howe has guided Newcastle to the top end of the table, with European football a distinct possibility this season. While a title challenge may be out of reach for the Magpies, a first-ever League Cup triumph remains on the cards as Newcastle look to kick off the PIF era with a piece of silverware.
Regardless of what happens to Newcastle this season, it's clear they're on the up under Howe and could look to strengthen their side in January. Leicester City midfielder James Maddison has been linked with a move to St James' Park, and while the England international remains a priority signing for Newcastle, transfer insider Dean Jones told GMS that the hurdles involved in any deal may force Howe to look elsewhere.
It's led them to Franca who has caught the eye in the Brazilian league, with Globo reporting Newcastle have already started negotiations for the attack-minded midfielder.
What's Taylor said about Franca and Newcastle?
In an interview with GMS, journalist Taylor hinted a move for Franca could be on the cards in January.
"You look at Newcastle's team, and although they've been exceptional already this season you look at that [midfield] as an area that could be upgraded.
"I know there has been interest in Matheus Franca and Newcastle are looking at that Brazilian market as one where there could be opportunities. That's down to Dan Ashworth."
What would Franca offer Newcastle?
Considered Flamengo's best youth prospect since Vinicius Junior, who left the Brazilian side for Real Madrid in July 2018, Franca has already caught the imagination, with various clubs said to be interested. According to the Daily Mail, Crystal Palace are also keen on a move, but could be put off by Franca's astronomical £87 million release clause.
A midfielder capable of contributing to the attack in various different ways, Newcastle's pursuit of Franca wouldn't be without risk, but it could prove a profitable one in years to come. Having been capped for Brazil at youth level, Franca's age would give Newcastle time to bed the player in with Howe notorious for developing young talent.