According to a recent report by Calciomercato, Manchester United have sent scouts to keep tabs on the development of Benfica centre-back Ruben Dias ahead of a potential move when the transfer window reopens in January. The same source has revealed that the Red Devils are currently a bit short of options in the defensive department, so they have identified the Portuguese defender as an ideal candidate to ease Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s defensive concerns at Old Trafford.
Dias’ Incredible Rise In Portuguese Football
The 22-year-old is a product of Benfica’s youth academy and made his first-team debut for the Liga NOS giants back in 2017. The Amadora born defensive ace has featured in a total of 90 matches for the Portuguese outfit, netting eight goals while providing three assists on all fronts.
Dias has put in some brilliant defensive displays for Benfica over the past couple of seasons and has averaged 1.0 tackles, 1.3 interceptions and 3.0 clearances per game in the top tier of Portugal so far this season (stats via whoscored). The Benfica centre-half has also represented Portugal at various youth levels before going on to feature in 10 matches for his nation at the senior level.
He was a vital member of the Portugal national side that emerged victorious in the UEFA Nations League earlier this summer. At such a tender age, Dias has already established himself as a regular starter for Benfica, but he is yet to prove his worth away from his homeland.
What Will The Portugal International Bring To The Theatre of Dreams?
Dias does not shy away from making a challenge and is always willing to put in a tireless shift for his side at the back. The Portuguese rising star can be a commanding presence inside his own half and is a reliable defender when left isolated in 1v1 situations. He has also shown in the recent past that he can make some important interceptions for his team. However, the Benfica centre-back is not a ball-playing defender as he does not look comfortable when playing the ball out from the back.
Will Dias Be A Good Fit For The Red Devils?
The acquisition of a player of Dias’ potential will undoubtedly be a massive coup for Man United if they can find a way to lure him to the Theatre of Dreams during the winter transfer period. The pros outweigh the cons when it comes to recruiting the Portuguese defender.
Furthermore, Dias will not only add more quality to Solskjaer’s backline but will also increase competition for places within the Red Devils squad. Hence, it’s safe to assume that he will be an excellent fit for the Mancunian outfit.
