Valencia target Manchester City centre-back Vitor Reis amid summer scramble

Valencia have named Manchester City centre‑back Vitor Reis as one of two preferred targets to reinforce their defence, while Manchester City maintain that they are not prepared to let the 20‑year‑old Brazilian depart this summer as the transfer window heads towards its close ahead of the 2026‑27 campaign.

Since arriving from Palmeiras, the Brazilian has emerged as one of Manchester City’s more compelling young defenders. His composure on the ball and comfort playing out from the back have made him attractive to clubs across Europe.

Enzo Maresca, Manchester City’s manager, is understood to view the centre‑back position as a key part of his defensive plans for the new season. He works closely with director of football Hugo Viana as they assess the futures of several defensive options, including the Girona loan duo Vitor Reis and Claudio Echeverri.

Valencia’s scouting report specifies a right‑footed centre‑back comfortable playing out from the back, and the club’s sporting director and staff have agreed that Vitor Reis and Real Madrid’s Joan Martínez are their two leading candidates. The inclusion of Martínez highlights the high regard in which the position is held in Spain.

The pursuit is described as being in its early stages, with no formal approach yet made to Manchester City. Barcelona’s sporting director has reportedly made contact with Manchester City regarding Reis after Girona’s relegation, underscoring the broader Spanish interest.

Manchester City’s current position, according to the report, is that they are not considering letting Reis leave the Etihad Stadium at this stage. Maresca is said to be actively trying to keep the Brazilian as part of his squad heading into the 2026‑27 campaign.

The report notes that the situation could change as the summer transfer window progresses, leaving open the possibility that Valencia’s interest develops into a concrete offer. Whether Reis remains at Manchester City or moves to La Liga will be closely watched as the window approaches its deadline.