Real Madrid keen to sign 18-year-old prodigy who is also being watched by Arsenal and Liverpool: Reports
Real Madrid have set their sights on Vitor Reis, according to SPORT. The 18-year-old defender has earned rave reviews since breaking into the Palmeiras senior team this season.
Reis has already amassed 25 appearances for the Brazilian club so far, 23 of which have been starts. His efforts have apparently caught the eye of Los Blancos head scout Juni Calafat.
The La Liga champions are always on the lookout for the next big thing in world football. Real Madrid have been quite successful in the South American market as well, bringing in Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes and grooming them into superstars.
Los Blancos have a cordial relationship with Palmeiras, having secured the services of Endrick Felipe this summer. However, they have now set their sights on his former teammate Reis.
The teenage defender has already displayed maturity beyond his years, while his tactical awareness, ball-playing abilities, and speed have impressed Calafat. However, the player is protected by a €100m release clause, which complicates a deal.
The Brazilian is under contract with Palmeiras until 2028, so they hold all the cards in any negotiations. Additionally, Arsenal and Liverpool also have their eyes on the player, who is expected to eventually end up in Europe.
Could Real Madrid move for Vitor Reis next summer?
Real Madrid failed in their pursuit of Leny Yoro this summer and are likely to be in the market for defensive reinforcements in 2025. Los Blancos have to lay down succession plans for Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba soon, with both players on the wrong side of 30.
Incidenally, the Austrian is already sidelined with an injury since last season, although he is expected to be back before the end of this year. The La Liga giants are already a little short at the back following Nacho Fernandez's exit this summer.
A move for Reis makes sense, as the 18-year-old's arrival could sort out the position for at least a decade. He could also be a stellar partner for Eder Militao in the heart of Real Madrid's backline.
However, competition from the Premier League could pose a problem for Los Blancos. Liverpool are on the lookout for Virgil van Dijk's long-term successor, with the Dutchman already in the final year of his contract.
Meanwhile, Arsenal could turn to Reis as a long-term partner for William Saliba, and the move could also signify their ambition and desire to compete with the best in Europe. However, the Real Madrid have an enviable record in the South American market and are likely to be the favorites in the race.