Dortmund Secures Promising Brazilian Talent Prates Ahead of Transfer Regulations

omidbasir- Borussia Dortmund’s recruitment team has demonstrated its trademark efficiency by securing an early agreement for Brazilian starlet Prates, successfully navigating increasing European competition. Following their established recruitment blueprint, the club has finalized a deal for a player who cannot yet relocate to Germany due to FIFA regulations concerning the transfer of minors. This foresight ensures that Prates will join the squad after turning 18 in August, with a total financial commitment of €12 million reflecting the high potential attributed to him during his development at the Cruzeiro academy.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed the details of the breakthrough, revealing that the agreement includes an initial fee of €7 million, supplemented by €5 million in performance-related bonuses. To underscore their confidence in his abilities, the club has reportedly offered Prates a long-term contract lasting until the summer of 2031, indicating their vision of him as a cornerstone of their defensive lineup for the next decade.

Although the paperwork has been finalized and medical examinations were completed on Tuesday, the Yellow Wall will have to wait a bit longer to witness their new acquisition at Signal Iduna Park. The structure of the agreement allows Prates to remain in Brazil temporarily, enabling Cruzeiro to continue his development in a familiar setting. This “stay-and-grow” model has become increasingly popular for Brazilian talents, facilitating a more gradual transition to the physical and tactical demands of top-flight European football.

The official transfer is scheduled for the summer, meaning Prates will remain with Cruzeiro for the first half of the 2026 Brazilian campaign. This timeline allows him to gain additional competitive experience in the Brasileirao before arriving in North Rhine-Westphalia just in time for Dortmund’s 2026-27 pre-season, ensuring he is physically prepared to compete for a starting position from day one.

What distinguishes Prates as an appealing prospect for the Dortmund hierarchy is his demonstrated ability to perform at the senior level, despite his young age. As a product of the Cruzeiro academy, the 17-year-old has swiftly advanced through the ranks to make a significant impact in Brazil’s top division. This exposure to high-pressure professional environments is viewed as crucial preparation for the challenges posed by the Bundesliga and the Champions League.

The young talent has already accumulated 17 senior appearances for the Brazilian giants and even scored a goal last year. He has started three of the five matches in which he has participated this season. His composure on the ball and tactical discipline at such a young age indicate that he possesses the mental resilience necessary to thrive under the intense scrutiny associated with playing for one of Germany’s largest clubs.

This signing exemplifies Dortmund’s aggressive recruitment strategy, which prioritizes high-potential players from across the Atlantic. By identifying Prates before he became a target for major Premier League clubs, BVB has mitigated the risk of entering into a late-stage bidding war. The left-back position has been a focal point for the club’s sporting directors, who believe they have secured a player who fits the modern profile of an attacking full-back.

Statistically, Prates presents a well-rounded profile; he possesses the speed to track back effectively while maintaining a consistent threat in the attacking third. Having already participated in five matches across all competitions this year and netting a goal, he arrives at Dortmund with momentum. With all documentation now complete, Prates will focus on concluding his time at Cruzeiro on a high note before joining the ranks of legendary Brazilians who have graced the Bundesliga.