Ruben Dias is one of the top young defenders across Europe. (Getty Images)
According to The Athletic, Manchester City are interested in signing Benfica defender Ruben Dias in the summer.
Dias, 23, rose through the ranks of Benfica’s youth system and made his breakthrough with the club’s senior team in the 2017/18 season. Since then, he has gone on to become a key member of the squad. He has also helped his side lift the Portuguese league title last season and the Portuguese Super Cup this term.
The centre-back has been a regular member of the Portuguese national team since making his debut in March 2018. He helped his country win the UEFA Nations League title last year. His impressive performances have earned him rave reviews and he was also handed the captain’s armband by his club manager.
Despite his tender age, he has been a phenomenal leader for Benfica, who are in 2nd position in the Liga NOS standings.
The Cityzens didn’t bring any replacements for Vincent Kompany, who left the club last summer. Aymeric Laporte was set to lead the defence. However, the Frenchman fell victim to an injury and missed a lot of action earlier in the season.
The manager was then forced to turn to defensive midfielder Fernandinho to take charge at the back. Though the Brazilian has done well, it hasn’t been enough for the team. Central defenders John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi failed to find form and were left on the bench for quite a long time. Thus, a centre-back is a must in the summer.
In that regard, signing Dias would be a massive boost to City’s backline. The Portuguese international has been in terrific form for Benfica in the last two seasons.
In the 28 games, he has played this term, the Portuguese champions have kept 15 clean sheets while conceding just 24 goals, boasting of the second-best defensive record in the league. Dias has been rock-solid at the back and his contribution has been highly impactful for the team.
Thus, Dias would be a valuable addition to Guardiola’s squad, given his recent form. And he could also form a strong partnership with Laporte in the heart of City’s defence if he is able to replicate the same good form.
At 23, the Portuguese international has immense experience at the highest level. With City in dire need of central defenders, signing Dias would be promising to their backline. He could add quality at the back and could also go on to be their leader in the long run.
