Manchester City
Manchester City are again being linked with Athletico Paranaense youngster Bruninho, as the club’s wider scouting network in South America continues to track the teenager’s development.
The 17-year-old forward has already attracted attention from Premier League sides in recent months. Wolves have been monitoring him closely, while Tottenham were credited with early interest last year.
Now, the focus shifts towards the City Football Group, which controls Manchester City and has a growing footprint in Brazil through Esporte Clube Bahia.
Reports from Brazil suggest the English champions’ structure is keeping a close eye on Bruninho’s situation, even if talks have not yet progressed into formal negotiations.
Contract situation and valuation
Bruno Braga Ramos, known as Bruninho, remains under contract with Athletico Paranaense until March 2028. However, his situation is far from straightforward, as told by RTI Esporte.
The Brazilian side are reluctant to open talks unless offers reach around €25m (£21.5m). Meanwhile, his release clause for foreign clubs is set at €50m (£43m), significantly higher than the figure being discussed internally.
That gap reflects both his potential and the club’s desire to maintain control. Athletico are already working on a renewal that would improve his salary and include performance-related clauses.
This mirrors earlier reports that negotiations with his camp have not been entirely smooth, with the player’s representatives seeking clearer career planning.
Importantly, any European move would still depend on timing. Bruninho can only move abroad after turning 18 in August 2026.
Development, profile and off-pitch episode
Bruninho has been steadily building his reputation across multiple levels. He started 2026 by joining Athletico’s senior setup and has since recorded four goals and one assist in 13 appearances.
His versatility stands out. He can operate as a winger, attacking midfielder or central striker. That flexibility often appeals to clubs like Manchester City, who prioritise tactical adaptability in young recruits.
Also, according to the report, he is seen as a major revelation in South American football by Manchester City’s sporting director, Hugo Viana.
Earlier in his pathway, Bruninho also impressed heavily in youth football. He scored 25 goals in 43 matches across Athletico’s U17 and U20 sides last season. In addition, he recently featured for Brazil’s U20 side, delivering a strong performance against Paraguay.
There has also been a minor off-field incident. In March, the teenager was stopped by police while driving without a licence.
Athletico responded with a fine and temporary removal from the first-team environment. Manager Odair Hellmann publicly backed the player, framing the situation as part of his development process.
What this means for Manchester City
Manchester City’s interest in Bruninho appears to be part of a broader, long-term strategy rather than an imminent move.
The involvement of Hugo Viana, who is highly regarded in recruitment circles, indicates internal awareness of the player’s potential. However, there is no sign of urgency at this stage.
For now, City and their wider group seem content to monitor Bruninho’s progress while Athletico attempt to secure his future.
That approach fits a familiar pattern. Identify early, track closely, and move only when timing, price and pathway align.
With Premier League rivals already circling and contractual tensions still unresolved, Bruninho’s next steps will be closely watched in England over the coming months.