Latest developments
- Manchester City have held talks to sign Vitor Reis.
- Brighton and Hove Albion are also keen on the Palmeiras defender.
- Pep Guardiola's side are in the market to add several signings in January.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Simon Jones reveals City talks
Manchester City have held talks with Palmeiras over a move for their centre-back Vitor Reis. The talented Brazilian has also attracted interest from Brighton and Hove Albion.
The story comes from the Daily Mail‘s Simon Jones, who is a very respected figure in the industry when it comes to Premier League transfer updates.
Value (3/5): One offer already turned down
Palmeiras have already turned down a bid worth £23 million for Reis from Brighton. As such, City would have to certainly offer more than that figure to convince the Brazilian side to part ways with their prized asset.
Anything in the region of £30 million would be seen as a big gamble from City for a player who is only 18 years old.
Suitability (3/5): Versatile talent
The resilient defender, who is regarded as one of the most exciting South American talents, can play on both sides of a pairing and is also comfortable in a back three. His versatility could help him thrive in Pep Guardiola's ever-evolving system.
Upgrade? (2.5/5): Needs time
Reis is a highly-rated centre-back, but it is too early to think he would be an upgrade on any City centre-back, including even the struggling Nathan Ake. Should the Brazilian get the big move, he is likely to be seen as a squad player under Guardiola until he finds his feet in England.
Logic (2/5): Not an ideal move
The idea of playing under Guardiola is certainly appealing, but it would be best for Reis to move to a different club in Europe if he must make that transatlantic journey from Brazil in January.
The pressure of playing for a struggling City side could prove to be too much for the starlet. The Cityzens, meanwhile, should look to find an agreement with Lens for their another defensive target, Abdukodir Khusanov.
Whisper+ verdict: 14/25
If City's hierarchy are indeed in talks with Palmeiras, they clearly trust Reis to strengthen Guardiola's backline from the get-go. However, the Spaniard himself may not be a big fan of this move, given that he isn't known for handing regular minutes to young stars.
