Chelsea to battle PSG and Liverpool for defender with €100 million release clause - Reports

Chelsea are locked in a battle with Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for Vitor Reis, according to Fichajes.net. The 18-year-old has a €100m release clause in his contract with Palmeiras, which runs until 2028.

The Blues have invested heavily in talented young players in recent times. They have already signed Estevao Willian, also known as Messinho, from the South American club and have now turned their eyes to his teammate Reis.

The Brazilian defender has been very impressive for Palmeiras in recent times and has already turned heads at multiple clubs across Europe. Recent reports have suggested that Real Madrid have already identified him as a possible long-term partner for Eder Militao.

However, Los Blancos will face competition from Chelsea and Liverpool in the race for the teenager. The Reds are laying down succession plans for Virgil van Dijk, whose contract at the club expires at the end of this season.

The Dutchman has been indispensable for the Merseyside club in recent times and his potential departure could open up a void at the back. Liverpool want to ensure that they preserve the quality at the back as they embark on a new journey under Arne Slot.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are looking to strengthen their backline, which has been depleted following Thiago Silva's departure this summer. While Tosin Adarabioyo was roped in as the Brazilian's replacement, Axel Disasi's uncertain future has forced the Blues to turn to Reis. It is believed that PSG, Manchester United, and Arsenal also have their eyes on the young defender.

How have Chelsea and Liverpool fared this season?

Both Chelsea and Liverpool oversaw managerial changes this summer. Arne Slot replaced Jurgen Klopp at Anfield, while Enzo Maresca was roped in as Mauricio Pochettino's successor at Stamford Bridge.

The Dutch manager has registered a stunning start to life with the Reds. The Merseyside club are at the top of the Premier League table after seven games, with six wins and a solitary defeat against Nottingham Forest to their name.

Liverpool have scored 13 goals and conceded just two in the league so far. They have won nine of their 10 games in all competitions this season.

Meanwhile, the Blues haven't done too badly either. Enzo Maresca's team are fourth in the league table, with four wins and two draws. The London giants have scored 16 goals and conceded eight in the league so far. Overall, Chelsea have seven wins in 11 games across competitions this season.