Brazilian Teen Vitor Reis Joins Manchester City in Record Transfer

MANCHESTER, England — Manchester City announced the signing of 19-year-old Brazilian defender Vitor Reis from Palmeiras on Tuesday, marking their second acquisition in the January transfer window. The four-and-a-half-year deal, worth €35 million (approximately R$217 million), makes Reis the most expensive Brazilian defender in history.

“It’s a dream come true to play for a club as big as Manchester City,” Reis said during his unveiling. “This achievement isn’t just mine but also my family’s and everyone who helped me get here. It’s an incredible accomplishment, and I will work hard to make the most of it.”

Reis, who will wear the No. 22 jersey, expressed excitement about working under manager Pep Guardiola, calling it “every young player’s dream.” He also highlighted the club’s history of nurturing Brazilian talent, including Gabriel Jesus and Fernandinho.

The young defender, listed among The Guardian‘s top 60 most promising young players in 2023, has been a standout at Palmeiras since joining their academy in 2016. His transfer surpasses the €20 million (R$107.8 million) deal that took Lucas Beraldo from São Paulo to Paris Saint-Germain earlier this year.

Reis joins a star-studded defensive lineup at Manchester City, competing for a spot alongside seasoned professionals like Rúben Dias, John Stones, Nathan Aké, and Manuel Akanji. “I have a lot to learn from these players, who are elite defenders, the best in the world,” he said. “Especially Rúben, who speaks my language, so I will listen closely to his advice.”

Manchester City’s January transfer window also saw the arrival of 20-year-old Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov from French club Lens. The club’s aggressive recruitment strategy underscores their ambition to maintain dominance in both domestic and European competitions.

Reis emphasized his determination to adapt quickly to life in Manchester and prove his worth. “Here, your goals must be as high as possible because this is a club that always reaches the highest levels,” he said. “But for now, I want to find my place, work hard, and win titles like the Champions League and the Premier League.”