As a strategy, it seems to make sense: Secure the budding superstar before he becomes prohibitively expensive. It worked out great for Real Madrid with Vinícius Júnior (acquired for €45m at age 16) and Rodrygo (also €45m at age 17), less so with Reiner (€30m at 18). And, of course, the jury is still out on Endrick, who completed his move to LaLiga this summer.
This past summer, we already saw Endrick, Leny Yoro, Archie Gray, Yankuba Minteh, Ernest Nuamah and Savinho move for €25m or more.