Crystal Palace have largely had to adopt a cautious approach in this summer’s transfer window, amid uncertainty over their European competition status.
So far, the only significant cash influx came from Malcolm Ebiowei’s move to League One side Blackpool. Meanwhile, youngsters David Ozoh and Joe Whitworth have returned to Derby County and Exeter City, respectively.
Franca, who arrived from Flamengo two years ago for a hefty €20m as one of Brazil’s brightest prospects, has struggled to make his mark at Selhurst Park. In two seasons, the Brazilian attacker has made just 19 appearances, and recent reports linked him with a return to Brazil.
Negotiations between Premier League side Crystal Palace and Brazilian club Cruzeiro intensified earlier this week, but according to Goal Brasil, the deal is now off. Cruzeiro reportedly consider the transfer ‘unfeasible,’ citing Franca’s salary demands alongside Palace’s terms. The wages would place Franca among the club’s top three earners.
Palace, who invested €20m in the 21-year-old, are keen to recover as much of that sum as possible if a permanent exit occurs. At present, it seems unlikely that Franca will join Cruzeiro this summer.
Whether another club will step in before the window shuts remains uncertain. If no move materializes, Franca could remain at Selhurst Park under Oliver Glasner, and might see more opportunities, particularly if Odsonne Edouard or Eberechi Eze depart.
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