Report: £26m forward Newcastle wanted to sign could make his PL debut at St James’ Park tomorrow

Newcastle United could come up against one of last year's long-term targets when Crystal Palace come to St James' Park on Saturday.

For a long time, Newcastle kept a close eye on 19-year-old Brazilian wonderkid Matheus Franca with many outlets reporting that an approach was imminent.

However, it never materialised and the Magpies let Franca slip through their fingers and he was snapped up by Roy Hodgson for Crystal Palace.

Crystal Palace signed Franca for £26m but he has yet to play

The exciting young forward signed for Palace in a deal that could see Brazilian side Flamengo receive up to £26million.

Unfortunately for Hodgson, a stress fracture on Franca's lower back was detected during his medical and as a result he has yet to make his debut for Palace.

Now London News Online has reported that Franca could be included in Crystal Palace's team to face Newcastle at St James' Park.

Franca hasn't played an enormous amount of top-flight football only making nine appearances last season for Flamengo in the Brazilian Serie A where he also netted one goal, but his performances caught the eye of many a scout.

Franca was rated as one of the top 50 young footballers in the world

Matheus Franca was selected as one of the top 50 wonderkids in world football on this year's NXGN list showing just how highly regarded he is.

Hopefully, he doesn't end up haunting on Saturday making Eddie Howe regret his decision to let another club steal him away.

Given the two side's propensity to play out 0-0 draws we're not too worried, but surely, SURELY there's goals in this game this time.