Arsenal have made initial contact with Palmeiras over the availability of their highly-rated young centre-back, Vitor Reis, as interest in the Brazilian defender intensifies across Europe.
The 18-year-old, who debuted for Palmeiras in 2024, has drawn attention from some of the continent’s biggest clubs, including Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan, but Arsenal’s proactive approach could set the stage for a fierce transfer battle.
SALVADOR, BRAZIL - NOVEMBER 20: Luciano Rodriguez (L) of Bahia and Vitor Reis (R) of Palmeiras fight for the ball during a match between Bahia and Palmeiras as part of Brasileirao 2024 at Arena Fonte Nova Stadium on November 20, 2024 in Salvador, Brazil. (Photo by Pedro Vilela/Getty Images)
Photo by Pedro Vilela/Getty Images
Reis has rapidly established himself as one of Brazil’s most promising defensive talents.
After stepping into Palmeiras’ first team alongside Gustavo Gómez during Murillo’s absence, the teenager has demonstrated exceptional maturity, composure, and tactical intelligence, earning him the title of Brazil’s best defender of 2024 by TV Gazeta.
In his debut professional season, Reis made 22 appearances, with 20 starts, scoring twice across domestic competitions.
SAO PAULO, BRAZIL - JULY 01: Vitor Reis (L) of Palmeiras celebrates with his teammates after scoring the second goal of their team during a match between Palmeiras and Corinthians as part of Brasileirao Serie A 2024 at Allianz Parque on July 01, 2024 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images)
Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images
Palmeiras, however, are firm in their stance. Sources close to the club’s board insist they have “no intention of releasing the player” at this stage, emphasizing that Reis still has significant developmental potential within the team.
Club president Leila Pereira and manager Abel Ferreira see Reis as a cornerstone of Palmeiras’ future and are expected to resist all offers, regardless of the growing European interest.
Real Madrid are believed to have been tracking Reis for months, having made inquiries as early as mid-2024. While Los Blancos have a history of successful dealings with Palmeiras—most recently securing Brazilian sensation Endrick—Arsenal’s involvement could complicate the Spanish side’s plans.
Endrick (via Twitter)
Endrick (via Twitter)
The Gunners, spearheaded by former technical director Edu Gaspar, have a proven track record of recruiting and developing South American talent, a factor that could weigh heavily in their favour, although how that plays out now with the Brazilian no longer at the club is hard to know.
Reis’ skill set makes him an ideal target for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal. The young defender’s ability to play in both a back four and a back three, combined with his ball-playing qualities and leadership potential, aligns perfectly with Arteta’s tactical demands.
Additionally, Reis’ adaptability and comfort in high-pressure situations suggest he could seamlessly integrate into Arsenal’s dynamic, possession-based system.
As the January transfer window approaches, the race for Reis’ signature will undoubtedly heat up. While Palmeiras maintain their reluctance to sell, the increasing interest from European heavyweights could test their resolve. For Arsenal, securing a player of Reis’ calibre would represent another major step forward in their project under Arteta, further solidifying their status as one of Europe’s most exciting clubs.
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