Manchester City leaves Barcelona without another Brazilian 'gem'

Pep Guardiola will soon add another center-back to the Manchester City squad. The Manchester team secured the services of Vitor Reis, a 'gem' from Palmeiras whom FC Barcelona was closely monitoring. The defender, 19 years old and 1.86 m tall, shone last season with Abel Ferreira's team, establishing himself as one of the most complete center-backs in the Brasileirao due to his speed, ball security, and impeccable coverage in aerial play. 

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the 'cityzens' reached an agreement for 35 million euros fixed plus a sell-on clause included. Barcelona was very attentive to the defender's future, but Deco ultimately did not contact Palmeiras' management directly to present a formal offer. Real Madrid was indeed very interested in the center-back, but in the end, City moved quickly to secure the immediate transfer.

City will immediately incorporate Vitor Reis

As he is an adult player, the Brazilian will have no restrictions to travel to England and should join Pep Guardiola's squad in the coming days. Reis turned 19 last Friday, January 12, and last season played 33 matches (2,757 minutes) with 'Verdao'. His last appearance was on December 4, in the victory against Cruzeiro. However, Palmeiras hoped to keep the defender until July to participate in the Club World Cup with Abel Ferreira's team.

In addition to the one from São José dos Campos, City is very close to finalizing the signing of Abdukodir Khusanov. The club could acquire the Uzbek for a similar amount (40 'million'), plus other bonuses that will raise both operations to 100 million euros. On Tuesday, the 'sky blue' team surprisingly draw in their visit to Brentford (2-2), ending a streak of three consecutive victories.