Why Ruben Dias would be a smart signing for Manchester City
According to The Telegraph, Manchester City scouts have identified Ruben Dias as a defensive target for the January window.
The report also suggests that Pep Guardiola has ruled out an active winter transfer and is willing to continue with the bunch of players available at present. Despite the Spaniard making such claims, City scouts seem to be on the lookout for reinforcements.
Dias, 22, has grown to become one of the best in his position over the past few years. He has displayed some solid performances at the back for both Portugal and Benfica and has attracted attention from several top European teams.
Meanwhile, Manchester City got back to winning ways after a slight dip in form and Kevin De Bruyne continues to be at the heart of City’s brilliance so far. Though they have not been the dominant force they used to be, City have managed to do well and are chasing Liverpool for the title.
Having said that, City have been deprived of enough clean sheets this term due to huge defensive frailties. They failed to replace Vincent Kompany, who departed last summer, and Aymeric Laporte’s injury made things worse.
John Stones has been prone to injuries whereas Nicolas Otamendi has not been convincing enough to start regularly. As a result, the manager has had to turn towards defensive midfielder Fernandinho to take charge at the back.
The Brazilian failed at the start but looks to have recovered from his sloppiness and is the only player who has done quite well so far.
With that in mind, Guardiola must bring in reinforcements to provide a good foundation in front of their goalpost. They have been lacklustre in the defence and this might be the right time to rope in Ruben Dias, who could go on to build a reputation for himself.
Despite playing in Portugal, where the league is not as fearsome as the one in England, Dias has played every possible minute for Benfica this season.
The Portuguese also has two goals to his name and can be a threat from set-pieces. He is vocal and commanding, thus adding to his leadership qualities.
At 6ft 1in, Dias has shown the strength and character of a modern-day defender. In addition, he is good at passing the ball with an 89.8% accuracy [Whoscored].
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Verdict
The Etihad outfit are known to spend big on reliable sources and therefore, City must go all out for Ruben Dias in January.