Although Bangla Cricket Live reports that while Erling Haaland is only 25 and already shining with 12 goals and one assist in his first nine matches this season, Manchester City has begun planning ahead for his successor. The club’s scouts are now turning their attention to a remarkable young striker from Brazil, a teenager who has already been dubbed the “Brazilian Haaland.”
Seventeen-year-old Wenderson Wanderson Santos de Melo, known simply as “Del,” has been making waves in the youth ranks of Bahia FC. In 2023, he scored 40 goals in just 34 matches for Bahia’s U17 team, a stunning record that earned him a debut appearance for the senior squad at only 16. Thanks to his strength, pace, and clinical finishing, local fans affectionately call him the “Haaland of the Serrão Region.” Such early brilliance has naturally drawn the gaze of European giants.
According to The Mirror, Del may soon share the Etihad Stadium spotlight with his famous Norwegian namesake. Manchester City is said to be closely monitoring his progress, but Italian powerhouse AC Milan is also keeping a close watch, making the race for his signature even more intense.
Bangla Cricket Live notes that Del’s current contract with Bahia includes a massive £87 million release clause, a figure that could make even Europe’s richest clubs hesitate. However, there is a twist—City Football Group, Manchester City’s ownership entity, controls 90% of Bahia’s shares. This connection could make negotiations more favorable for City, turning what looks like a multi-million-pound deal into more of an “under-the-table handshake” between partners.
When asked about his future, Del remained calm and confident. “Every player dreams of playing in Europe’s top leagues,” he said. “I would love to represent a club like Manchester City, which I see as the best team in the world. But I believe everything happens in its own time.”
He continued, “Before that, I want to win trophies with Bahia and become a local hero in front of our supporters. After that, who knows—maybe I’ll win more titles at Manchester City and earn the fans’ love there too.”
Reflecting on his nickname, the young striker smiled. “I’m happy people call me ‘Haaland.’ He’s a role model for so many of us. I enjoy watching his matches and his videos—it’s inspiring to see how he plays with such power and confidence.”
Bangla Cricket Live concludes that Manchester City’s pursuit of Del shows just how far the club is willing to plan for the future. With Haaland in his prime and a new “Brazilian Haaland” emerging, City seems determined to ensure their goal-scoring legacy remains unstoppable for years to come.