Arsenal sporting director Edu Gaspar recently sent officials to Palmeiras, aiming to scout a Brazilian talent for manager Mikel Arteta’s squad. The north London club is targeting reinforcements in both defense and attack, with 2025 representing a key opportunity to bolster their roster as they pursue their first Premier League title in 21 years. Following two close title challenges, January could be critical for Arsenal’s ambitions.
Arteta has faced numerous selection challenges this season, with players like Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Mikel Merino, Takhiro Tomiyasu, Gabriel Jesus, Ben White, Jurrien Timber, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Kai Havertz, Kieran Tierney, and Riccardo Calafiori all missing time due to injuries. Tomiyasu has recently re-injured his knee and may be out for several weeks, while Calafiori and Odegaard were absent from the recent 2-2 draw with Liverpool. This spate of injuries highlights Arsenal’s need for more depth to remain competitive among England’s top clubs.
Arsenal has been encouraged to sign a new forward amid concerns about Gabriel Jesus’s availability, and Edu is reportedly prepared to invest in a defender as well. Potential attacking targets include Dusan Vlahovic and Benjamin Sesko, while Atalanta’s Isak Hien and Ajax’s Jorrel Hato are being considered for defensive reinforcement. Arsenal is also linked to Palmeiras starlet Vitor Reis, with The Athletic recently reporting that discussions have taken place with his representatives. However, competition for Reis is fierce, with Chelsea, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Liverpool also closely monitoring the 18-year-old, whose release clause is believed to be around £83 million.
The Boot Room confirmed that Arsenal’s scouts attended Palmeiras’ recent 2-2 draw against Fortaleza, joining other Premier League clubs like Brighton, Liverpool, and Chelsea in observing the promising defender. Reis, standing at 186 cm, has been noted for his aerial abilities, tactical awareness, and adaptability in open play. Spanish outlet AS described him as a complete modern defender with both physicality and talent, marking him as a potential future star.
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