Man City sign Brazilian defender Vitor Reis from Palmeiras

Premier League champions Manchester City have completed the signing of teenage defender Vitor Reis in a £29.6m move from Brazilian club Palmeiras.

The 19-year-old Brazilian right-footed central defender has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal with the club. Reis made 22 appearances for Palmeiras and represented Brazil’s Under-17s on nine occasions.
Palmeiras had hoped to retain Reis on loan until the end of the season, but City insisted on an immediate transfer.

Reis expressed his excitement about joining Man City, a club he has admired since his childhood.
“This is a dream come true. Since I was a young kid, I’ve always dreamt of an opportunity like this to play for a club as big as City. When Manchester City came knocking, I knew there was nowhere else I wanted to go,” Reis said during his unveiling on Tuesday.

“I’m excited to join Manchester City, one of the biggest clubs in the world.”

“Everyone has seen the amazing achievements in recent seasons, and I want to make my mark as we seek more trophies. Working with Pep Guardiola is something every young player dreams of, and I know he can help me develop into the best player I can be.”

Man City director of football, Txiki Begiristain, hailed the young defender: “Vitor Reis is one of the most promising young defenders in the world, and we’re delighted to have brought him here. He is excellent on the ball and outstanding in the air — he has all the attributes needed to be one of the best.”

Reis becomes City’s second signing of the January transfer window, following the arrival of Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov. The club are also reportedly pursuing Eintracht Frankfurt striker Omar Marmoush before the transfer window closes.

Injury problems have hampered City’s Premier League title defence this season, particularly in defence. However, their recent 6-0 victory over Ipswich has lifted them to fifth in the table.

The addition of Reis and potential further signings will provide Guardiola’s side with much-needed reinforcement as they push for domestic and European success.