Vitor Reis subject to transfer interest from La Liga as Manchester City weigh up decision

Manchester City is evaluating the best development path for 19-year-old Brazilian central defender Vitor Reis ahead of the new season, with significant interest emerging from Spain. Signed from Palmeiras for £29.6 million in January, Reis is viewed as a key long-term prospect and has trained with the first team, making limited appearances in cup competitions.

As pre-season approaches, the club is deciding whether to integrate Reis further into Pep Guardiola's first-team squad or arrange a tailored loan move. This decision is complicated by City's significant depth in central defence, where established players like Rúben Dias, Manuel Akanji, Nathan Aké, John Stones, and Josko Gvardiol compete for minutes, severely limiting opportunities for a teenager.

Due to this congestion, City is exploring external development pathways, particularly within the City Football Group (CFG) network of sister clubs, which offer shared tactical principles. Girona has emerged as a key CFG partner for nurturing young talent at the highest level, exemplified by players like Yan Couto and Savinho.

Reports indicate Girona is showing concrete transfer interest in Reis during the ongoing summer market. The La Liga side is reportedly planning a loan deal that would guarantee Reis starting minutes and regular game time – conditions unlikely to be met at Manchester City currently.

However, neither Pep Guardiola nor Manchester City have made a final decision on Reis's immediate future. Some within the club believe keeping him with the first-team squad could be more beneficial for his development. Reis's progress is considered crucial to City's long-term defensive planning, especially given uncertainties surrounding Manuel Akanji's future and concerns over John Stones' long-term fitness.