Manchester City have reportedly opened talks to sign Palmeiras defender Vitor Reis this month.
The Citizens are planning to bolster Pep Guardiola's small squad in the January transfer window and defensive reinforcements are thought to be high on the agenda.
Reigning Premier League champions City, currently down in sixth place, have been hit hard by injuries this term and have been without at least one of their four centre-back options - Ruben Dias, John Stones, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake - during their torrid run of just three victories in 15 games across all competitions.
It is understood that Man City are keen to reduce the age profile of a team that has become the fourth oldest in the Premier League this season, with three of the four aforementioned centre-back options aged 29 or older.
Recent reports claim that the Citizens have made contact with Lens to discuss a January deal for 20-year-old defender Abdukodir Khusanov, and they now appear to have stepped up their pursuit of South American starlet Reis.
© Imago
Man City making progress in pursuit of Reis
According to Brazilian news outlet UOL, via journalist Fabrizio Romano, negotiations between Man City and Palmeiras are underway for the Citizens to sign 18-year-old Reis.
Man City are said to have identified Reis as a 'key target' and their 'mission' to sign the centre-back for around €40m (£33.6m) is ongoing.
It is claimed that Reis and his agent has already agreed personal terms with Guardiola's side, and talks between both clubs are now 'advancing fast' as Man City are keen to close the deal to avoid rival teams entering the race for his signature.
Brighton & Hove Albion were credited with an interest in Reis, but they are believed to have ended their pursuit of the youngster after seeing an offer in the region of €25m (£21m) rejected by Palmeiras.
Real Madrid, Barcelona, Arsenal and Manchester United have also been linked with Reis, but it appears that Man City are now in the driving seat to secure the services of the highly-rated defender.
© Imago
Who is Palmeiras starlet Vitor Reis?
Born in Sao Paulo, Reis began his career at the R10 Academy in Paraiba, which was set up by former Brazil and Man City player Robinho, before moving to Palmeiras in 2016 at the age of 10.
The defender established himself as a key player at academy level and was later rewarded with his first professional contract towards the end of the 2022 campaign.
Reis had to wait until June 2024 to make his senior debut for Palmeiras and has since made a total 22 first-team appearances in all competitions, including 16 starts in the Brasileiro.
The 6ft 1in Brazil Under-17s international was named by The Guardian as one of the best players born in 2006 across the globe, along with the likes of Real Madrid star and former Palmeiras teammate Endrick.
Oliver Thomas
