Manchester City
Bahia rising star Dell could end up at Manchester City in the near future.
Manchester City owners City Football Group are the majority shareholders at the Brazilian club.
In addition to these two clubs, CFG have several other clubs in their stable and could use that to help the 17-year-old continue his development.
The striker came up through the ranks of Bahia’s youth system and made his way into the first team last year. He’s only made a handful [16] of appearances so far, scoring four goals.
His Campeonato Baiano and league stats this year are as follows:
Appearances: 13
Total minutes: 594
Goals: 4
Assists: 0
Earlier in the season, Sport Witness covered claims from Brazil of Manchester United’s interest in the youngster. The same source reported the Red Devils had sent a scout to monitor him.
Manchester City part of long-term plan
AS now have a report on what could happen to Dell’s future, both in the short and the medium term.
Bahia manager Rogério Ceni is happy with the Brazil U17 international’s development so far.
“He’s only 17, but he’s a kid who’s working incredibly hard. That’s life; it’s all about decisions. We all have a tactical role on the field. He’s living up to expectations,” he said.
“He’s demonstrating the necessary physical intensity to play and he’s an agile player. And if another striker arrives, he’ll keep playing because he’s earned it. I’m very happy for him.”
After relaying the manager’s comments, AS then focus on CFG’s plan for the striker. Their title says: ‘The ‘Brazilian Haaland’ makes City doubt’.
He will turn 18 years of age in June, making him eligible to make a switch to Europe.
CFG are taking his potential and performances into account, to evaluate the next steps for Dell’s future. Their plan is to send him to Europe, to Troyes, Girona or Lommel SK, other clubs owned by the Manchester City owners.
A move to the La Liga side remains complicated. Troyes will be an option in the event of their promotion while a move to Lommel will be considered if they avoid relegation.
CFG’s plan is to send him to a club from their stable, to closely monitor the young striker’s development. AS state if all goes well, their plan is to ‘eventually bring him to Manchester City.’
If the player joins one of the European clubs owned by CFG, Pep Guardiola’s side would find it relatively easier to secure his services in the future.
Contract, value and agent info
Dell’s contract expires in December 2028 and AS state it includes a €100m release clause while Transfermarkt value him at €4m.
Brazilian agency Bertolucci Sports, owned by agent Giuliano Bertolucci, is representing the Bahia star.