Manchester City are keeping an eye on another Brazilian youngster, with Bernardo Zortea now emerging as a target for the Premier League side.
[According to Kaliel Dorneles, from Band](https://bolade3.com.br/botafogo-palmeiras-e-city-tentam-a-contratacao-de-jogador-do-gremio/), the City Football Group recently made an enquiry about the 18-year-old midfielder, alongside a couple of Brazilian clubs. That has led Grêmio to intensify their efforts to renew the player’s contract.
Zortea is considered one of the club’s most promising youth products and currently has a deal running until June 2026. However, negotiations over an extension are currently stalled.
The stumbling block, according to Dorneles, is a dispute between Grêmio and Chapecoense regarding the division of the player’s economic rights. Zortea started his career at Chapecoense, standing out at under-15 level before moving to Grêmio, where he completed his development.
Known for his tactical awareness, passing ability and vision, Zortea has also impressed internally at Grêmio, and recently became a regular starter for the first team under manager Mano Menezes. Francesco Barletta, general coordinator of the club’s youth divisions, praised both his technical and behavioural attributes:
_“He is a boy who plays more as a holding midfielder, with a good body type for the role, good technique and strong understanding of the game. He also has excellent off-the-pitch conduct,”_ said Barletta.
_“What will be most valuable for him is the fact that he listens a lot and wants to learn. These experiences with the first team are crucial for his development. He will certainly make the most of it, and that will help him grow and continue evolving in his formation process.”_
While Grêmio are working behind the scenes to secure his future, the ongoing impasse with Chapecoense could open the door for Manchester City to make a move and steal a march on their competitors.