Palmeiras – The São Paulo giant is on the verge of banking roughly R$ 125 million from the sale of 18-year-old striker Heittor to the City Football Group, a move that could be signed off in the coming days, sources say.
- In short: A €20 million deal sends the academy star toward Girona FC before any Manchester City dream.
Why the City Group is moving fast on Heittor
Negotiations are described as “very advanced”, with the multi-club conglomerate planning to park the teenager at La Liga surprise package Girona FC for seasoning. The same pathway turned heads when fellow Palmeiras product Vitor Reis made the jump in 2025.
By funneling raw South American talent through its satellite clubs, the City Group limits risk and maximizes resale value—an approach that has already netted Manchester City prospects such as Julián Álvarez and Savio.
“The agreement should be finalised in the next few days,” reports Diario AS, underscoring the urgency surrounding the bid.
Palmeiras’ academy: a cash machine with global reach
The Verdão have now generated more than R$ 1 billion in youth sales over the past five seasons, spearheaded by blockbuster moves for Endrick, Estêvão and Kelvin. CIES Football Observatory ranks the club fourth worldwide in academy revenue, a testament to its relentless production line.
Heittor’s numbers justify the hype: five goals in seven under-20 outings this year despite missing the Copinha through injury. Scouts also rave about his pace and versatility, traits valued across the City network’s 13 clubs on five continents.
What do you think? Is the multi-club model the future of player development, or does it drain South American leagues too soon? For more transfer updates, visit our Sports section.
Image credit: Press Release