Both the Gunners and Los Blancos could be active during the January transfer window as they bid to strengthen their respective bids to win silverware during 2024-25.
Most recently, defence has been a particular area for concern courtesy of a range of injuries, some players facing longer spells on the sidelines than others.
To what extent each club is prepared to move remains to be seen, the possibility remaining that they may each stick with their current crop for the remainder of the campaign.
Nevertheless, the Premier League and Spanish giants have received an important update with regards to the status of one of their alleged long-term targets.
Vitor Reis asking price revealed
At a time when much of the attention has been on the development of future Chelsea arrival Estevao Willian, Reis has also been making a positive impression with Palmeiras.
With that in mind, Paulo Sampaio - the coordinator of the club's youth teams - has stated that the 18-year-old will not be allowed to depart Allianz Parque for anything less than a record-breaking fee in at least 18 months time.
He said, as quoted by The Mirror: "There were two teams that talked about €30 million and Palmeiras refused. Vitor Reis will be the most expensive defender in the history of Brazil. He will be sold for around €35 million.
"Palmeiras did not want to listen (to Vitor Reis' proposals) because they are focused on the 2025 Club World Cup. If there is anything, just like what happened with Estevao, it will be after the World Cup."
Will Palmeiras retain their stance?
Of all the teams in Brazilian football, Palmeiras are the ones who will not feel forced to cash in on their youth talent unless they receive their desired fee.
Well in excess of £100m has already been generated from deals involving Endrick and Estevao, while they will also be wary of weakening their squad any further.
Losing the Brasileiro title to Botafogo meant that it was a disappointing end to the campaign, and they will only have Estevao at their disposal for the first half of 2025.
Therefore, Reis - who played 18 league games during the recently-completed season - seems likely to stay put, particularly having completed 90 minutes in seven of their last eight league games where he has been available.
Written by
Darren Plant