Premier League
Real Madrid Target Ruben Dias as Manchester City Weigh Summer Exit
Manchester City defender Ruben Dias, 29, is being linked with a move to Real Madrid as the club weighs his possible exit this summer, despite a stated desire to keep him. The interest follows Pep Guardiola’s departure and the appointment of Enzo Maresca as the new manager.
Pep Guardiola’s exit from the Etihad Stadium has intensified speculation about Dias’s future. Enzo Maresca, set to succeed Guardiola, inherits a defence that may lose both Dias and Josko Gvardiol if the centre‑back seeks an exit.
Jose Mourinho is reported to be leading Real Madrid’s pursuit of the Portuguese centre‑back. Inter Milan have also been linked with a potential move for Dias, adding another option to his market.
Jose Mourinho drives Real Madrid’s aggressive summer signings
Sam Lee of The Athletic identifies Dias as a likely outgoing player this summer. Manchester City prefer to keep both Dias and Gvardiol, yet will consider offers if either player pushes for a departure. Real Madrid’s defensive rebuild, hampered by Eder Militao’s recurring injuries and Antonio Rudiger’s age, makes Dias an attractive target. Raul Asencio and Dean Huijsen have not consistently convinced in senior roles, reinforcing Madrid’s desire for proven options. John Stones has already left Manchester City, leaving Dias as a key pillar of the back line. Dias signed a new contract until 2029 last summer, but his 2025‑26 season was disrupted by a hamstring injury that sidelined him before the Carabao Cup final.