The transfer market is heating up, and Manchester City are poised to make a bold move for Flamengo’s rising star, Wesley Franca. The 21-year-old Brazilian right-back has reportedly given his approval for a blockbuster summer switch to the Etihad Stadium, with an official bid from the Premier League champions expected imminently. As Pep Guardiola seeks to bolster his squad ahead of the 2025/26 season, Franca’s dynamic skill set and ambition to play under the Catalan maestro have positioned him as a prime target, outpacing interest from rivals like Liverpool and Barcelona.
Franca, a two-cap Brazil international, has been a standout performer for Flamengo since his senior debut in December 2021. With 128 appearances for the Serie A giants, his blend of speed, dribbling flair, and versatility has drawn comparisons to elite European full-backs. Capable of thriving as a traditional right-back or inverting into midfield—a role Guardiola famously utilizes—Franca is seen as the ideal long-term successor to Kyle Walker, who recently joined AC Milan on loan. “Wesley has approved a transfer to the Etihad as he dreams of playing under Pep Guardiola and taking his game to the next level,” a source close to the player revealed, highlighting his eagerness to join City’s trophy-laden project.
Manchester City’s pursuit of Franca comes as part of a broader strategy to reinforce their defense, which has been plagued by injuries to key players like Rúben Dias and John Stones. The club’s interest in the Flamengo star intensified after negotiations for Newcastle’s Tino Livramento stalled, with the Magpies holding firm on their valuation. City’s financial muscle gives them an edge over Barcelona, where Franca reportedly harbors a childhood dream of playing, and Liverpool, who had eyed him as a potential replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold before pivoting to Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong. “Man City are close to making an official bid,” insiders noted, with the offer expected to be around €30 million ($31 million), though Flamengo may push for a higher fee given Franca’s contract runs until 2027.
Franca’s journey to this pivotal moment is a testament to his rapid rise. Born in Rio de Janeiro, he honed his craft in Flamengo’s youth academy before breaking into the first team at 18. His performances in the Copa Libertadores and Serie A have showcased his ability to dominate defensively while contributing offensively, with three goals and 10 assists in 2024 alone. “He’s quick, confident at dribbling and getting forward,” a scout observed, emphasizing his fit for Guardiola’s system. Franca’s two appearances for Brazil, including a substitute role in a World Cup qualifier, underscore his growing stature on the international stage.
The move aligns with City’s history of tapping Brazilian talent, from Fernandinho’s midfield mastery to Gabriel Jesus’ early promise. Unlike past signings like Robinho, whose £32.5 million transfer in 2008 fizzled, Franca’s youth and adaptability suggest a brighter trajectory. If completed, the deal would see him join City’s star-studded squad, potentially before their Club World Cup campaign in June 2025. However, questions remain about his immediate role—whether he’ll slot into the first team or continue developing in Brazil until next season, a strategy City employed with recent signing Vitor Reis.
For Flamengo, losing Franca would be a blow, but the financial windfall could fuel their ambitions to defend their Serie A title. Fans in Rio are torn, with many proud of Franca’s European prospects but reluctant to see their homegrown gem depart. As City prepare their bid, the transfer saga underscores their relentless pursuit of excellence, aiming to maintain their Premier League dominance and conquer Europe. Franca’s dream move to Manchester could be the spark that ignites another golden era for the Citizens.
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