Man City set to complete major signing as player spotted with his dad at airport and flight tracked to the UK
Manchester City are closing in on their first major signing of the January transfer window as Palmeiras defender Vitor Reis appears set to join the Premier League champions. Brazilian journalist Leo Barbieri reported that the 19-year-old boarded a flight to Manchester with his family, stopping in Portugal before heading to England.
Barbieri shared, “Vitor Reis has already embarked for England. First stop in Portugal, then Manchester. He’s traveling with his family and representatives.”
According to reports, City have agreed to pay Palmeiras £29.4 million for Reis, a highly-rated centre-back. Palmeiras’ president had earlier expressed her desire for Reis to remain in Brazil for this summer’s Club World Cup.
However, the teenager is now expected to move immediately, bolstering Pep Guardiola’s defensive ranks during a crucial point in the season.
City’s centre-back options currently include Ruben Dias, John Stones, Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake, and Josko Gvardiol. However, with both Dias and Stones sidelined by injuries and Gvardiol frequently deployed at left-back, Guardiola has been keen to reinforce his backline.
Evidently, the addition of Reis could provide much-needed depth and energy to a squad that has endured a mixed campaign so far.
Adding to the intrigue, fans noticed a flight from Lisbon to Manchester—a well-used route by City personnel—that appeared to match Reis’s travel plans.
One fan commented, “We’re all tracking this flight. It’s exciting to think he’s finally on his way!”
In addition to Reis, City have already secured a £33.4 million deal for Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov, with the Uzbekistan international set for a medical later this month.
Meanwhile, negotiations are ongoing for Frankfurt striker Omar Marmoush, who could cost the club £67 million.
Guardiola’s side has faced criticism for their inconsistent form, winning just one of their final 13 matches in 2024. After surrendering a two-goal lead to Brentford on Tuesday, City sit sixth in the Premier League table.
Reinforcements like Reis and Khusanov could play a pivotal role in revitalizing their title defense.
City’s spending spree reflects Guardiola’s determination to rejuvenate the squad. As Barbieri put it, “This move for Reis shows that Manchester City are serious about addressing their defensive vulnerabilities.”
Fans will now be eagerly awaiting the official announcement of the Brazilian’s arrival.
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