Barcelona are reportedly considering Manchester City defender Vitor Reis as a potential January reinforcement amid difficulties in their pursuit of FC Twente youngster Ruud Nijstad.
According to Spanish newspaper Sport, the 20-year-old Brazilian is among several centre-backs being assessed by sporting director Deco ahead of the winter transfer window.
Barcelona are reluctant to meet Twente's reported €20 million (£17.6 million) valuation of Nijstad, encouraging the club to explore alternative options.
Reis could offer a temporary solution, although Manchester City have not confirmed that they are prepared to sanction another loan.
Barcelona assess Reis amid Nijstad transfer difficulties
Barcelona have identified defensive reinforcements as a priority for January, with Nijstad attracting particular attention.
The 18-year-old is valued at approximately €20 million by Twente, a figure the Catalan club reportedly considers excessive.
Sport identifies Reis, Ajax defender Youri Baas, Athletico Paranaense youngster Arthur Dias and Stuttgart's Finn Jeltsch as alternatives.
Reis has previous experience in Spanish football, having spent the 2025-26 campaign on loan at Girona.
Barcelona were also linked with the Brazilian last summer, when reports suggested Deco had contacted Manchester City about his availability.
His limited playing time under Enzo Maresca this season could make another temporary move attractive.
However, Reis is naturally right-footed, whereas Barcelona have reportedly prioritised signing a left-footed centre-back.
That difference could influence Hansi Flick's final decision.
Manchester City retain control over Reis' future
Reis joined Manchester City from Palmeiras in January 2025 before moving to Girona on loan the following summer.
The defender gained valuable La Liga experience during that spell and returned to the Etihad Stadium ahead of the current campaign.
However, he has struggled to secure regular opportunities.
Recent reporting credits Reis with four competitive appearances and approximately 199 minutes this season.
His contract runs until June 2029, giving City considerable control over his future.
Barcelona could therefore explore a loan rather than an expensive permanent transfer, particularly given their other defensive targets.
A recent Spanish report also claims Flick is increasingly attracted to Reis' ability to play out from defence under pressure.
Nevertheless, City would need to approve any departure, and no formal January agreement has been reported.
Key Points
- Barcelona are reportedly monitoring Reis as an alternative to Twente's Nijstad.
- Nijstad's reported €20 million valuation could complicate Barcelona's plans.
- Reis remains under contract at Manchester City until 2029, with a loan only a possibility.
What's Next?
Barcelona will continue evaluating centre-back options ahead of January, while Manchester City must decide whether another loan would benefit Reis' development.
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