Manchester City are making bold moves in the January transfer window, securing deals for two promising defenders as they continue to shape their long-term strategy.
Palmeiras’ 18-year-old centre-back Vitor Reis is set to join the reigning Premier League champions after a £29.5 million agreement, overcoming initial resistance from the Brazilian club, who were keen to retain the player until after the Club World Cup.
City’s persistence has paid off, bringing in one of Brazil’s brightest young talents earlier than expected.
According to sources, this deal comes on the heels of another acquisition—Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov, signed for £33.5 million last week. At just 20, Khusanov represents another step in Pep Guardiola’s gradual squad rebuild.
Although neither player is anticipated to be a regular starter immediately, both are viewed as key investments for City’s future. The duo will join the first-team setup upon arrival, offering much-needed depth to a backline that has been plagued by injuries, with John Stones and Ruben Dias still sidelined.
City’s January business, however, doesn’t stop there. Talks are ongoing with Eintracht Frankfurt for forward Omar Marmoush in a deal potentially worth £60 million, signaling the club’s intention to make a statement in a window they traditionally approach cautiously.
Meanwhile, the squad could see a major departure, as captain Kyle Walker has reportedly expressed his desire to explore opportunities abroad. Although Saudi clubs have shown interest, AC Milan has emerged as a likely destination for the veteran right-back.
Speaking on the club’s transfer approach, Guardiola emphasized the necessity of integrating younger players to ensure continued success. “New players, young players, they will come,” Guardiola remarked. “I don’t know now, I don’t know in summer, I don’t know next season, but in the next two or three, the club has to, of course, do it. It’s a question of age.”
With Reis and Khusanov joining the ranks, City are not only addressing immediate defensive concerns but also laying the groundwork for sustained dominance in the years ahead.
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