Recent reports have claimed that Ruben Dias is set to sign a new deal at Manchester City, which would undoubtedly be a huge boost for Pep Guardiola.
What's the word?
According to the Daily Star, Dias will be rewarded with a new contract worth £140k-per-week after his exceptional debut season at the Etihad Stadium, a significant increase on the £80k-p/w they claim he currently earns with the Citizens.
Despite the 24-year-old signing a six-year contract when he arrived from Benfica in a deal worth £65m last year, it seems clear that City are desperate to tighten their hold on the centre-back, who won the Premier League Player of the Season award for his performances in the 2020/21 campaign.
A huge boost for Guardiola?
Although it would've been nearly impossible for any club in world football to prise Dias away from Manchester City this summer or anytime soon, it will be good news for the Citizens if they can tie him down to a new improved contract, which will hopefully be another step towards keeping him at the Etihad for the majority of his career.
Last season saw the Portugal international make 32 appearances in the Premier League for City, contributing one goal and averaging a solid 6.91 rating from WhoScored for his performances.
His partnership with John Stones at centre-back was key to City's success in the Premier League, whilst he produced some exceptional displays in the Champions League to help them reach the final against Chelsea.
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After a memorable display in the semi-final second leg against PSG, where he seemed determined to block every single shot from Mauricio Pochettino's side, talkSPORT host Andy Goldstein sang his praises, saying: “Ruben Dias, my goodness what a defender he is. Is he the best defender in the Premier League?
“I think he is. I think he’s better than Virgil van Dijk. I think he’s fantastic. This Ruben Dias is a rock. He will die for the badge.”
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Therefore, it can only be good news for Guardiola if Dias commits to a new improved deal with Manchester City. If his performances in his debut season are anything to go by, the Portugal centre-back could be a key player at the Etihad for the next decade.
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