Chelsea and Arsenal to battle for highly-rated Brazilian defender: Reports

According to a report by Sky Sports Germany via Florian Plettenberg, Chelsea and Arsenal are set to battle for Vitor Reis's services. The 18-year-old is one of the world's most highly rated young defenders and could be set for a move next season.

Reis plys his trade for the Brazilian side Palmeiras and has played 1,817 minutes across 22 games for the club so far in his career. He signed a contract extension this summer and is contracted to the club until the end of 2028.

Arsenal and Chelsea are reported to be keen to purchase the defender and will monitor his performances until a move can be finalized. The teenager would be a suitable option to bolster either side's defense, and given his €10 million value on Transfermarkt, he could prove a cheap acquisition as well.

Reis joined Palmeiras' acadedy in 2016 at the age of 10. He established himself as a key player in the club's youth teams, often captaining the sides he played in. The youngster has also represented Brazil at the U-16 and U-17 levels.

---

"I think Moises can sit at that table with that kind of midfielder" - Chelsea manager believes Ecuadorian midfielder is as good as Arsenal superstar

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca believes Moises Caicedo is as good as Arsenal star Declan Rice. The defensive midfielders are two of the most expensive in the sport's history, and their technical and physical prowess make them stand out in their position.

Both players moved to their respective London clubs in the summer of 2023. Caicedo moved from Brighton & Hove Albion to the Blues for a reported €116 million a month after Rice swapped West Ham for the Gunners for a reported €116.6 million.

Following Caicedo's recent performances for his side, Maresca believes he is as good as Rice and even comparable to 2024 Ballon d'Or winner Rodri. He said (via GOAL):

“He [Caicedo] is for sure now at that level. No doubt. Unfortunately, Rodri is injured but Declan is playing. But I think Moises can sit at that table with that kind of midfielder.”

Declan Rice has made 68 appearances for Arsenal since he signed for the club, scoring eight times and providing 14 assists. He is contracted to the Gunners until the summer of 2028.

Moises Caicedo, meanwhile, has played 64 times for Chelsea, bagging two goals and six assists for the West Londoners. He is contracted to the Blues until the summer of 2031.