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Report: Man City battling Real Madrid for 17 y/o midfielder worth £83m

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Manchester City aren’t short of options in midfield with Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, Kevin De Bruyne, Fernandinho, Ilkay Gundogan and Rodri at their disposal, but the Premier League leaders are planning for the future by scouting young talent overseas who could develop in their academy.

Matheus França is one of them, though Bolavip (h/t Sport Witness) say City will have to battle Real Madrid to procure his signature. The 17-year-old plays for Flamengo and is rated highly after breaking into the first-team this season -Franca made two appearances at senior level in December

He’s described as a box-to-box player who is versatile and creative, while also being strong enough to hold off challenges. The Brazilian youth international has great levels of industry, a good eye for a pass and excessive pass to get away from his marker. It’s no wonder City and Real are keen.

Franca won’t come cheap, however. Bolavip say his release clause is €100m (£83m), which would make him City’s second-most expensive signing. Pep Guardiola loves building for the future and has an affinity for youth players, handing playing time to 10 teenagers this season, but the 17-year-old might be too expensive.

In other news, Man City must pay £63m and £208k p/w wages to sign Atletico Madrid forward

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