Manchester City are weighing up the “shock sale” of centre-back Ruben Dias, according to reports.
It was claimed last week that Chelsea are keeping an eye on the Portuguese international’s situation and it has now been confirmed by TEAMtalk that City “could sell” the player at the end of the season.
Dias has been at the Etihad for just over four years, having joined from Benfica for £65m in September 2020.
The 27-year-old remains a key player for manager Pep Guardiola and he still has just under three years remaining on his contract.
Yet, from what is being said, it seems as though the Cityzens are seriously contemplating letting him go next summer.
Would City sell Dias to Chelsea?
The centre-half has arguably not reached his peak yet, with Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk demonstrating that you can excel in the Premier League even when you are in your early to mid-30s.
For that reason, it seems slightly strange that Dias could be set to depart. Even if he were to leave, though, you would think City would reject any approaches from Premier League rivals.
TEAMtalk claim that Chelsea are indeed planning an “audacious move” for the player. The two clubs do have cordial relations after striking deals in the past but, with Enzo Maresca’s side becoming more of a threat at the top of the Premier League, you’d think a transfer abroad would be preferred.
Other players could depart the Etihad in the summer
In addition to Dias, the odds are increasing that midfielder Kevin De Bruyne could leave. The Belgian has interest from Saudi Pro League clubs but a switch to the United States appears likelier.
New franchise San Diego FC are said to be in contact with his representatives about joining on a free transfer. Other players, such as Ederson, Mateo Kovacic and even Erling Haaland are also on the radar of other clubs.
Find out who is in Manchester City’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here