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Brazilian defender, known for aerial prowess, catches Liverpool’s eye

Liverpool are among several top clubs showing interest in Palmeiras’ highly-rated centre-back, Vitor Reis.

The 18-year-old has quickly gained attention in Brazil after an impressive start to his career, and now some of Europe’s biggest teams are tracking his progress.

A report from The Athletic journalist Mario Cortegana confirms that Liverpool have “expressed interest” in Reis. Arsenal and Real Madrid have already made “initial enquiries,” while Chelsea and Barcelona are also keen on the young defender, whose contract runs until the end of 2028.

Reis has a release clause of €100 million (£83 million), though Palmeiras are in no rush to sell. They aim to keep hold of their No. 44 at least until next summer’s Club World Cup. So far, negotiations have been conducted through the player’s representatives, not directly with the club, as it becomes increasingly clear that he’s being groomed for a major move in the near future.

Since making his debut in June, Reis has become a key figure for Palmeiras under manager Abel Ferreira. His team currently sits second in Brazil’s Serie A, just a point behind league leaders Botafogo after 17 matches. Reis first caught the public’s attention with a standout performance, scoring on his full debut and securing the Man of the Match award in a 2-0 win over Corinthians.

Statistics from FBref highlight his strengths, with Reis averaging 3.57 aerial duels won per 90 minutes—putting him in the top 8% of centre-backs across the world’s top 15 leagues. For comparison, Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk averages 3.85 (top 4%), while Ibrahima Konate comes in at 4.35 (top 1%). Reis also ranks in the top 12% for both tackles won (1.96) and pass completion (89.5%) per game.

Liverpool’s current position in the race for Reis is likely cautious, much like their approach with Leny Yoro before his €70 million (£58.3m) move from Lille to Manchester United last summer. Yoro was seen as a unique talent, a chance too good to pass up for the right price. Reis appears to fall into a similar category, seen as a long-term investment with elite potential rather than immediate competition for Van Dijk or Konate.

However, with Van Dijk’s contract expiring next summer and the Dutch captain now 33 years old, Liverpool may accelerate their plans for a future successor. The club is hopeful of extending Van Dijk’s deal, as he remains one of the world’s top defenders, but the need for long-term planning is becoming increasingly important.

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