Manchester United is having a very different season compared to last year, with many positive results and a philosophy that is finally working under coach Ruben Amorim. To keep up the momentum, the Red Devils are considering taking a very interesting approach in the transfer market to retain their young talent, after seeing what Arsenal is doing with Max Dowman.
According to Brazilian media reports, Manchester United is intensifying its observation of Wendeson Santos Dell, known simply as Dell, a Brazilian striker for Esporte Clube Bahia, during the Under-17 World Cup taking place in Qatar.
Manchester United seeks its "Haaland" in Brazil
Originally, Dell was not on United's initial list of targets at the tournament, but the 17-year-old's performance caught the eye, especially after he scored twice in Brazil's 7-0 win over Honduras. The English club's scouts, who are in Qatar monitoring various talents, can now turn their attention to the player as Brazil progresses in the competition.
Dell, who plays for Bahia's U-20 team and has already been called up once for the first team this season (with two non-league appearances), is seen as a promising talent with the potential to join the senior team soon. The striker has been compared to Manchester City's Erling Haaland, not for his physical stature, but for his style of play: he is fast and known for being very effective at converting chances, characteristics that resemble the Norwegian star.
Manchester United is considering signing Dell to strengthen its youth ranks, seeking to add more competition among young talents such as Chido Obi Martin, who is already close to making the leap to the first team. However, a possible transfer of Dell out of Brazil could only legally take place after he turns 18 in June 2026.
Finally, the Red Devils may follow a similar path to that of signing Sekou Kone, who was also recruited after impressive performances at the Under-17 World Cup.