Drooid Logo
Back to story perspectives

Full Breakdown

Manchester City Target Palmeiras Winger Allan Elias as Savinho Replacement

8/21/2026, 2:02:54 AM

Core Transfer Development

Manchester City are negotiating a transfer for 22-year-old Palmeiras winger Allan Elias as they prepare for the likely departure of fellow Brazilian Savinho to Tottenham Hotspur. Sources say City hope to finalize a deal before the summer window closes, positioning Elias as a direct replacement on the right flank. The forward carries a €100 million release clause, but Palmeiras might discuss a fee nearer €40 million, well below the clause. No agreement has been confirmed.

Background & Context

Savinho’s move to Tottenham is expected to be completed, leaving City with a vacancy on the right wing. Recent activity includes Rodri’s move to Barcelona and Tijjani Reijnders’ departure for Al Qadsiah, underscoring a busy end-of-window period. City’s recruitment under manager Enzo Maresca emphasizes wingers capable of one-on-one duels, a profile that aligns with Elias’s style. The relationship between City Football Group and Palmeiras was reinforced by the 2025 transfer of defender Vitor Reis, which may facilitate negotiations.

Player Profile & Statistics

Allan Elias – full name Pablo Allan Andrade Elias – was born in Florianópolis, Brazil, on April 19, 2004. He joined Palmeiras in 2019 from Figueirense and debuted for the senior team in January 2025. He has made 92 appearances, scoring nine goals and providing 11 assists across all competitions, with four goals and two assists in 20 Serie A matches this season. He is left-footed, operates on the right wing, and is noted for tight dribbling, aggressive defensive work-rate, and the ability to cut inside. Elias remains uncapped for Brazil and is contracted to Palmeiras until 2029.

Negotiation Landscape

Palmeiras publicly rejected a €30 million approach from Aston Villa, stating the player is integral to their plans for the remainder of the Brazilian season. The club has signaled a preference to retain Elias until January, suggesting a willingness to consider a loan-back arrangement. Reporters David Ornstein, Mario Cortegana, Guillermo Rai and Sam Lee confirmed City’s interest and noted the €100 million release clause.

An unverified claim suggests Palmeiras could accept around €40 million if the transfer occurs immediately, though the club’s official stance remains a reluctance to sell. City’s recruitment team is reportedly pressing for an early agreement to secure the player before the end of the Brazilian season, while keeping the option to reassess his status in January.

Official Statements & Responses

Palmeiras officials have emphasized the player’s importance to the squad, reiterating that any sale must align with the club’s competitive objectives. No formal statement from Manchester City has been released. Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna reported that City have “stepped up their interest” in Elias as a contingency for Savinho’s exit, but noted that no definitive deal has been reached.

Conflicting Reports & Gaps

Sources differ on the financial terms under discussion. One set cites a possible €40 million fee, another references the €30 million Aston Villa offer that was rejected, and the contractual €100 million release clause remains the official ceiling. No source has confirmed a finalized fee or contract length, leaving the exact valuation and timing uncertain.

What’s Next

Negotiations are ongoing, with both clubs expected to continue discussions as the transfer window approaches its deadline. If an agreement is reached, Elias could join Manchester City immediately, with the possibility of a loan-back to Palmeiras until January. The outcome will shape City’s attacking options for the 2026-27 season and determine how the club compensates for the loss of Savinho.