Man City plot move for 'Brazilian Erling Haaland'

Dorothy Howard

Man City plot move for 'Brazilian Erling Haaland' image

Manchester City have one of the greatest goal scorers in football history in Erling Haaland, with the Norwegian already having 12 goals in all competitions this season. 

City are constantly looking to add to their attacking ranks, with Pep Guardiola signing Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders over the summer. 

The club is showing interest in a young attacking option who has been dubbed the "Brazilian Erling Haaland."

Wendeson Wanderley Santos de Melo, known as Dell, is on the radar of City, according to ESPN, but the 17-year-old has an £87m release clause. 

The youngster plays for Brazil's Bahia, and he has been prolific for the club, scoring  40 goals in 34 matches for Bahia's U-17 team in 2023. 

His statistics have helped him earn his first senior call-up for Bahia at the age of 16. 

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Despite his staggering release clause, City could sign the youngster due to the club's owners having a 90% stake in Bahia, as well. 

What has Dell said about the idea of joining Man City?

The 17-year-old previously said, "Every player dreams of playing at a high level in Europe. I have this dream of playing for a club like Manchester City, which for me is the best club in the world. But I believe things will happen naturally.

"Before that, I want to play here at Bahia, win titles, become an idol, and then go on to forge my path in Europe. Who knows, maybe win titles and become an idol at Manchester City too."

The youngster also discussed his nickname, saying, "I'm very happy to receive this nickname. Haaland is an inspiration to many. He's a guy whose videos I enjoy watching, both outside and inside the box.

"I think my movements are similar to his. I have a few other role models, but besides Haaland, a striker I like and have always followed since the youth academy, is Marcos Leonardo, who came through Santos. I enjoy watching him play."

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Dorothy Howard

Dorothy Howard is a freelance soccer writer for The Sporting News. Dorothy loves all things sports, especially soccer. She is unfortunately a hardcore Manchester United fan, but loves the USWNT. Since starting her career, she has published work for multiple sports sites, and is a trusted name in sports reporting.