The Catalan club has identified central defence as a priority but is aware that some targets are financially out of reach, with Luka Vuskovic among those considered difficult due to his valuation at Tottenham Hotspur.
As a result, attention has shifted towards alternative options, including Manchester City defender Vitor Reis, who has recently completed a loan spell with Girona in Spain. Reis, still only 20, is viewed as a long-term defensive prospect and gained valuable experience during his season in La Liga, where he featured regularly while on loan from the Premier League champions.
According to reports in Spain, Barcelona sporting director Deco has already made initial contact with Manchester City to explore the conditions of a potential deal for the young centre-back.
The proposal being discussed is understood to be a loan arrangement with an option to buy, a structure Barcelona have previously used in other negotiations involving attacking reinforcements. The relationship between Deco and Manchester City director Hugo Viana is described as positive, which could help facilitate discussions between the two clubs.
However, any potential move is expected to depend heavily on the position of incoming City head coach Enzo Maresca, who will assess whether Reis is part of his long-term plans at the Etihad Stadium. City are expected to make a final decision on the defender’s immediate future once pre-season evaluations are complete, with several young players under review.
Barcelona remain keen to reinforce their defensive options ahead of a demanding season and continue to monitor several profiles across Europe as they refine their recruitment strategy.
Reis is seen internally as a player who fits the club’s emphasis on youth development and tactical flexibility, although negotiations are still at an early stage.
Further discussions are expected in the coming weeks as Barcelona weigh up whether to formalise an offer, with the club also assessing alternative defensive targets should negotiations stall. City’s decision-making process is also expected to be influenced by squad depth in defence, with the club regularly reviewing the pathway for emerging players before sanctioning departures.
The situation remains at an early stage, but Barcelona believe the structure of a loan with an option could make the operation financially manageable if City are willing to negotiate.
Any agreement would likely depend on final approval from Manchester City’s coaching staff once pre-season assessments are completed.