Manchester City are set to make a big move in January, reportedly targeting three young talents to strengthen their squad and begin a rebuild. The Premier League champions are actively pursuing deals for Vitor Reis, Abdukkodir Kusanov and Omar Marmouche, in a strategy that could see them spend more than £100m this month.
The most important of these potential signings is Palmeiras’ 18-year-old defender Vitor Reis. According to Fabrizio Romano, City have reportedly agreed personal terms with the player, with reports suggesting a transfer fee of 40 million euros is being negotiated. Raith are said to be keen on a move to Manchester, although it is unlikely they will join before the Club World Cup.
Manchester City recognize that their current team may be reaching the end of a natural cycle. They believe they need an influx of young talent to remain competitive and continue to challenge for major trophies. The planned signing represents a strategic move to inject fresh energy and talent into the team and ensure long-term success.
In addition to Reis, City are also targeting Lens and Uzbekistan midfielder Abdukkodir Kusanov, as well as Eintracht Frankfurt’s Egypt forward Omar Marmouche. Securing all three players would represent a significant investment in young and emerging talent, and would mark a clear change in recruitment strategy.
Vitor Reis: First team plans or future investments?
The signing of Reis generated considerable speculation, given his age and relative lack of experience in Europe. The Athletic’s Sam Lee and Mario Cortegana report that City see Reis as a “first-team contracted player”, but his arrival remains uncertain and could be this month or the end of the year. Reporting.
City are reported to want to add the player to Josep Guardiola’s squad immediately, while Palmeiras are keen to keep him for this summer’s Club World Cup in the United States.
The Independent’s Richard Jolly reports that Manchester City intend to integrate Vitor Reis directly into the first team, ruling out a loan move if the transfer is completed this month. This suggests considerable confidence in his ability to contribute immediately at the highest level.
Palmeiras have a history of successfully selling players to Manchester City. This familiarity and past positive experiences may contribute to the ongoing negotiations.
The club’s past successes in signing Gabriel Jesus from Palmeiras in 2016 demonstrate their ability to identify and develop South American talent. Most recently, Palmeiras sold highly-rated forward Endrik to Real Madrid for a hefty fee, underscoring their expertise in developing young players and securing lucrative transfers.
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