Bahia, in the same ownership group as Manchester City, have made history in Brazil with a record deal for a player under 16-years-old.
Journalist [**Jorge Nicola**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RDVoH_oZgM) revealed on his YouTube channel that the club signed Dieguinho, a 14-year-old forward from Esforça, a small side in São Paulo. The transfer could reach €1m (£860k) to be paid before he turns sixteen.
While Bahia’s first team has seen fewer senior additions, the group’s plan seems clear. CFG are building a long-term development network, giving young players a path that could eventually lead to Manchester City, the group’s flagship club.
Nicola said Palmeiras, Flamengo, Red Bull Bragantino and Internacional also wanted the youngster. Dieguinho’s fee makes him the most expensive player under sixteen in Brazil.
The move shows how the City Football Group continue to invest heavily in young talent across continents.
It’s Bahia’s third major youth deal in 2025. The club also brought in David Martins (17, from América-MG, for €2.2m) and Cauê Furquim (16, from Corinthians, for €2.6m).
Dieguinho’s former club, Esforça, was founded in 2021. It aims to become one of Brazil’s top academies, and his record transfer is its biggest achievement so far.