Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Palmeiras‘ highly-rated young defender Vitor Reis, according to reports from AS.

The Gunners, who previously missed out on Brazilian prodigy Endrick to Real Madrid, are now looking to secure the services of another promising talent from the same club.

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - AUGUST 14: Vitor Reis of Palmeiras fights for the ball with Igor Jesus of Botafogo during the Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores match between Botafogo and Palmeiras at Estadio Olimpico Nilton Santos on August 14, 2024 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images)
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – AUGUST 14: Vitor Reis of Palmeiras fights for the ball with Igor Jesus of Botafogo during the Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores match between Botafogo and Palmeiras at Estadio Olimpico Nilton Santos on August 14, 2024 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images)

Reis, an 18-year-old centre-back, has already established himself as a key figure in Palmeiras’ first team, demonstrating exceptional positioning, tactical intelligence, and technical ability on the ball. His impressive performances have attracted the attention of several European giants, with Real Madrid leading the race for his signature.

However, Arsenal’s interest could complicate matters. The Gunners, known for their willingness to invest in young talent, could pose a serious challenge to Real Madrid’s pursuit of Reis. While Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid’s president, is typically hesitant to engage in bidding wars, Arsenal’s financial muscle could force his hand.

Botafogo's forward Igor Jesus (L) and Palmeiras' defender Vitor Reis fight for the ball during the Copa Libertadores round of 16 first leg all-Brazilian football match between Botafogo and Palmeiras at the Olimpico Nilton Santos stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on August 14, 2024. (Photo by Pablo PORCIUNCULA / AFP) (Photo by PABLO PORCIUNCULA/AFP via Getty Images)
Botafogo’s forward Igor Jesus (L) and Palmeiras’ defender Vitor Reis fight for the ball during the Copa Libertadores round of 16 first leg all-Brazilian football match between Botafogo and Palmeiras at the Olimpico Nilton Santos stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on August 14, 2024. (Photo by Pablo PORCIUNCULA / AFP) (Photo by PABLO PORCIUNCULA/AFP via Getty Images)

Reis’ attributes make him an attractive prospect for any top club. He’s comfortable playing in both a back four and a back five, displaying versatility and adaptability, key traits Mikel Arteta looks for. His composure on the ball and impressive passing range also fit well with the modern game’s demands for ball-playing defenders.

Additionally, Reis’ leadership qualities are evident, having captained both Palmeiras and Brazil’s youth teams. He has tasted success at every level, winning trophies throughout his youth career and playing a pivotal role in Brazil’s Under-17 Championship victory in 2023.

Despite Arsenal’s interest, Real Madrid remains the frontrunner for Reis’ signature. The Spanish giants have a strong relationship with Palmeiras, having finally signed Endrick from the Brazilian club this summer for €47.5m.

However, with Arsenal entering the fray with Edu’s connections, the race for Reis is far from over.