Deco and Flick identify Manchester City youngster as ideal fit for Barcelona project
· Yahoo Sports
Barcelona are once again looking closely at a player who slipped through their grasp not too long ago.
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As preparations continue for the 2026/27 campaign, SPORT reports that the Catalan giants have renewed their interest in Brazilian defender Vitor Reis, who spent the 2025/26 season on loan at Girona.
The young centre-back was heavily linked with Barcelona before eventually joining Manchester City from Palmeiras in a deal worth €37 million in January 2025.
Now, after a year of development in Spanish football, the defender has emerged as a potential option for Hansi Flick’s squad.
Conditions for a possible deal
Barcelona’s sporting department, headed by Deco, believes Reis possesses several qualities that fit perfectly with the demands of Flick’s system.
This is because the coaching staff admire his composure on the ball, technical quality and confidence when operating under pressure.
Vitor Reis was at Girona last season. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
One of the key reasons behind the renewed interest is the defender’s ability to play in aggressive defensive structures.
Notably, club officials have already started making enquiries to better understand Manchester City’s plans for the Brazilian defender.
Before making any formal move, Barcelona want clarity on whether the Premier League side is willing to discuss a temporary departure.
At this stage, a loan deal with an option to buy appears to be the scenario Barcelona are studying most closely.
Girona return looks unlikely
Reis spent last season at Girona, where he continued his development within the City Football Group structure.
Barcelona have reignited their interest in Vitor Reis. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
However, another temporary spell with the Catalan side does not appear to be the preferred route moving forward.
With Girona set to compete in the second division next season, the player’s future is expected to be reassessed.
That situation has opened the door for Barcelona, who see an opportunity to bring in a talented defender without immediately committing to a major transfer fee.
Even though defensive departures are not guaranteed this summer, the club continues to evaluate options capable of strengthening the squad both in the short and long term.
Reis fits that profile due to his age, potential and growing experience in Spanish football.