As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City are set to sign Vitor Reis in a deal worth around £30 million. The 19-year-old centre-back currently plays for Brazilian giants Palmerias and has made just 22 senior appearances. It would be a significant step for the young defender as City looks to complete the deal immediately.
Manchester City Set To Sign Vitor Reis
How Does Vitor Reis Play
Reis is a lanky defender, standing at 6 ‘2, but he has yet to fill into his body. He will take time to adapt to the physicality of the Premier League. Despite his slim physique, he is well-equipped in the air. In the past year, he has won 63.6% of his aerial duels, better than any of the current centre-backs in the city squad, Ruben Dias being the closest with a 57.9% win rate.
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Given how City play it should come as no surprise that Reis is competent with the ball at his feet. He completes 88% of his passes, but will need to become braver with his passing choices to fit Pep Guardiola’s system. Most of his passes are not progressive, averaging just under 300 yards per game in total progressive distance through passing, compared to the 400 yards that Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake average.
His performances have impressed those in his home country. One reporter labelling the youngster a ‘gem’ and ‘monster’.
How He Fits Into Manchester City’s Squad
Reis has just turned 19 and will be competing against some of Europe’s best defenders for minutes. His inexperience at the senior level will likely mean that he will be used sporadically in his first season at the club. Guardiola has shown that he will play younger players if they show their potential, Rico Lewis and Savio have both played a large portion of games this term.
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His pathway to regular first-team minutes may look similar to another Palmerias recruit Gabriel Jesus. The striker never fully earned the starting role in Manchester but was featured heavily in the four campaigns that the Citizens won titles while he was at the club.
