Crystal Palace have been linked with Flamengo’s Wallace Yan, a 20-year-old forward who has quickly moved from youth football to decisive contributions in the senior side. 

The Brazilian is now seen as one of the most exciting attacking prospects in South America, and the type of player whose style naturally attracts European interest.

Before joining Flamengo, Wallace’s path was far from straightforward. Raised in Realengo, a working-class neighbourhood in Rio de Janeiro, he first played on local pitches before earning a chance at Ferroviária in São Paulo.

His progress was halted by a serious leg fracture in 2021, a setback that nearly made him abandon football altogether. Flamengo eventually moved to bring him in on 2022, setting the stage for his breakthrough.

Yan is a forward with versatility, he can operate as a centre-forward, play off the flanks or drop between the lines. Originally developed as a winger, he was repositioned by coach Filipe Luís, who believes his qualities suit a more central role. 

“He uses both feet and finishes very well with either. He is light, versatile, healthy and a finisher. I see him much more as a nine, a guy who attacks space,” the Flamengo...