Manchester City have initiated discussions to sign 18-year-old defender Vitor Reis from Palmeiras during this January transfer window. The Premier League champions aim to strengthen their defense under manager Pep Guardiola for the remainder of the season.

Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Man City are leading the race to sign the young center-back, ahead of Brighton and other interested clubs. Romano mentioned that the Premier League side has proposed an initial €40 million package for Reis.

“Manchester City’s pursuit of Vitor Reis is ongoing in Brazil. Talks continue today and over the next hours/days,” Romano posted on X. “The 18-year-old Brazilian center-back is a key target after Brighton and other clubs had bids rejected. Man City are pushing hard with a €40 million package. Deal is in progress.”

Reis has been with Palmeiras since 2016 when he joined at just 10 years old. He made his first-team debut last year and has impressed with his performances.

If the deal goes through, Reis would be a valuable addition to Guardiola's squad, who are currently in 6th place on the Premier League table with 34 points from 20 matches.