Manchester City may need to be patient in their pursuit of Palmeiras striker Heittor. Fresh reports from Brazil indicate the youngster is edging closer to a first-team opportunity at the club.
City have already emerged as the main European suitor for the 18-year-old. Palmeiras rejected an initial offer worth around €20m (£17.4m). Moreover, negotiations have continued in the background amid confidence that a deal could eventually be found.
The Brazilian side, however, are giving another reminder of why they have been reluctant to rush.
According to Itatiaia, Palmeiras are actively preparing Heittor Vinicius for possible promotion to the senior squad during the second half of the season.
The report states club officials have been impressed by the striker’s development and believe he could soon become part of the support group that regularly trains alongside the first team.
That process has often served as a stepping stone for some of Palmeiras’ biggest academy talents. Eventually, they earn opportunities under Abel Ferreira.
Palmeiras see value beyond a transfer fee
The timing is interesting given the ongoing interest from Manchester City. While Palmeiras have become one of South America’s most successful exporters of young talent, they are also careful about when those sales take place.
A first-team breakthrough can significantly increase a player’s market value, particularly when European clubs are already circling.
Heittor Vinicius appears to fit that profile. The striker has been with Palmeiras since 2018 and has worked his way through the academy ranks while also earning Brazil youth international recognition.
Reports in Brazil suggest the club view him as a player with a particularly high ceiling. This comes after his physical and technical development over the last couple of years.
Numbers continue to strengthen his case
Despite dealing with injury setbacks, Heittor’s production has continued to attract attention.
He continue to rack up numbers, having reached 12 goals in 16 appearances this season. That represents another step forward for a player who has steadily built momentum after a difficult period interrupted by fitness problems.
There is currently another injury concern after he suffered a setback at the ICGT Tournament in the Netherlands. Nevertheless, that has not altered Palmeiras’ long-term plans.
In practical terms, the situation helps explain why the club were comfortable rejecting City’s opening proposal. Palmeiras know they have an asset whose value could rise further if he begins to feature around the senior squad.
What happens next
Manchester City remain in a strong position and their interest has not disappeared.
The wider plan is still believed to involve a move within the City Football Group structure, with Girona viewed as the most likely first destination if a transfer is eventually completed.
For now, though, Palmeiras are focusing on football rather than negotiations.
The Brazilian side believe Heittor Vinicius da Silva Nunes is approaching the point where he can contribute at senior level. If they are right, Manchester City may have to wait a little longer – and potentially pay more when they return.