In a significant move during the January transfer window, Manchester City has secured the services of 19-year-old defender Vitor Reis from Palmeiras for a fee of 35 million euros ($36 million). This signing marks the club’s second defensive acquisition in just two days, following the arrival of Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens on Monday, who has signed a 4.5-year contract.
Expressing his enthusiasm for joining the club, Reis stated, “I’m excited to join Manchester City. I want to make my mark as we seek more trophies.” His addition comes at a crucial time for the reigning Premier League champions, who have been facing challenges on the pitch, currently sitting fifth in the league and trailing 12 points behind leaders Liverpool. City is also striving to secure a spot in the Champions League knockout stage.
Reis, a former Brazil Under-17 international, has made 22 first-team appearances for Palmeiras. City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, praised Reis’s abilities, highlighting his proficiency on the ball and aerial prowess, stating, “He has all the attributes needed to be one of the best.” The urgency behind these signings is underscored by injuries to key defenders, including Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Nathan Ake, as well as an ACL injury to Ballon d’Or winner Rodri. Manager Pep Guardiola has acknowledged the squad’s limitations, prompting the club to act decisively in the transfer market, a departure from their usual strategy of saving major signings for the offseason. City faces Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday, with both teams at risk of elimination.
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