Manchester City have opened talks with Benfica over a £50million deal for defender Ruben Dias.
The Premier League title contenders have switched to the stylish 23-year-old after growing frustrated by Sevilla’s £65m valuation of Jules Kounde.
Though a deal for the Sevilla defender has not been totally ruled out, City are discussing a fee with Benfica for Dias who has long been on their shortlist.
Though his buyout clause is £87m, the covid pandemic means Benfica are willing to drop their price to attract much needed revenue.
City have also discussed sending Nicolas Otamendi the opposite way in negotiations, which Benfica are open to.
Talks are ongoing but there are hopes that a deal between the two clubs could be concluded as early as this weekend.
Dias has a long-term contract until the summer of 2024 at the Portuguese side.
Guardiola is an admirer of the Portugal international, who made 49 appearances across all competitions for club and country last season.
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