Manchester City eye Brazilian wonderkid! Pep Guardiola's side line up move for Gremio midfielder amid dispute

Per Band in Brazil, City are interested in signing Zortea from Gremio this summer. The defensive midfielder has a contract until 2026 and the club are attempting to extend his deal, though there is currently a dispute over his economic rights involving his current club and Chapecoense, where he began his career. 

Zortea is said to be highly-rated internally at Gremio, and he has already made 30 appearances for the club's Under-20 side. It is currently unclear if City believe he can slot straight into Guardiola's squad, or if he would be loaned to another City Football Group club. 

Gremio's coordinator of their youth teams, Francesco Barletta, said of Zortea: “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.

“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.”

City are continuing their pre-season preparations currently and face Palermo in a friendly on Saturday.