Borussia Dortmund have reportedly beaten European competition to sign Cruzeiro’s teenage sensation Kauã Prates in a deal worth approximately €12 million .
The 17-year-old left-back, regarded as one of Brazil’s most exciting defensive prospects, is set to join the Bundesliga giants in July 2026. According to Sky Germany’s Patrick Berger and Florian Plettenberg, negotiations have reached the final stages after Dortmund improved their initial valuation to satisfy the Brazilian club’s board.
Transfer Details: Fee and Contract
The total package for Prates is expected to reach €12 million, including fixed fees and performance-related add-ons.
- Contract Duration: Valid until June 2031 (5-year deal).
- Arrival Date: The defender will turn 18 on August 12, allowing him to officially move to Germany during the European summer window.
- Role: He is expected to join Nuri Şahin’s first-team squad immediately upon arrival.
Why Dortmund Acted Fast
Dortmund’s scouting department has been monitoring Prates since late 2025. With current left-back options like Ramy Bensebaini aging and constant Premier League interest in the squad’s talent, Sebastian Kehl prioritized securing the Brazilian “jewel” before his price skyrocketed.
Prates has already made 15 professional appearances for Cruzeiro, showing maturity beyond his years and recently scoring his first professional goal under the guidance of former Brazil coach Tite.
Beating the Competition
The race for Kauã Prates was far from a one-horse race. Clubs from the Premier League and La Liga were reportedly keeping tabs on the defender. However, Dortmund’s proven track record of developing South American talents was a decisive factor in the player’s “green light” for the move.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
