Contents
Latest developments
- Manchester City considering selling Ruben Dias
- Everton reported as a potential destination
- Manchester City preparing a squad reshuffle
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (0.5/5): Source flimsier than Everton's defence
TEAMtalk have already reported that Manchester City are considering selling Ruben Dias next summer as they prepare their squad for a mini-overhaul, with youngsters taking a seniority role in preparation for the ruling over their reported 115 breaches of the Premier League's financial profit and sustainability rules (PSR).
If the club are found guilty, they could be relegated to the second or third tier of English football and handed a transfer ban. As such, City are preparing to have as many youngsters in their squad as possible.
The reports surrounding Dias' sale may be true, however, NBCSPORTZ's report of Everton attempting to sign him next summer can be all but trashed due to the source's over-sensationalisation of non-existent rumours.
Value (1/5): Everton’s finances can't handle Dias
While Manchester City may be willing to sell Dias next summer, they will not do so for a low figure as they are very likely to ask for at least his running market price of €80 million (£66.5m).
In addition to the transfer price being realistically unattainable for Everton's flimsy finances, Dias' wages will not be cheap either as his reported wage of £180k-per-week is more than any player currently on their books.
Suitability (5/5): A top centre-back under Sean Dyche
While Dias' move to Everton is highly unlikely, the move would finally give us a look at how a top ball-playing centre-back would perform under Everton boss Sean Dyche, who is known for his hard and old-school defensive playbook. Dyche has done wonders with Jarrad Branthwaite so far at Goodison Park, and he would likely do a good job with Dias as well if given the time.
Additionally, Dias could also slot in as a defensive midfielder for Everton, a position that has given them more trouble than any other. The Portuguese star's ability on the ball would make him the perfect cover for a mediocre midfield.
Upgrade? (5/5): Very few centre-backs in the world better than Dias
While Everton's current centre-back lineup of Branthwaite, Michael Keane and James Tarkowski is better than what most lower mid-table clubs possess in the Premier League, Dias would be an unimaginable upgrade on the latter two.
Branthwaite would be the only centre-back who can think about touching Dias' level. However, this will likely be the centre-back's last season at Goodison Park.
Logic (1/5): World-class blunder for Dias
At this moment, Dias could likely slot into any top team's defensive lineup, barring Barcelona and, potentially, Real Madrid; as such, a move to Everton would be the most hilarious choice a footballer has made in this decade at least.
Everton should go ahead without a minute's hesitation if they can bring Dias to Goodison Park without affecting other parts of their squad.
Whisper+ final verdict – 12.5/25
Any club would be lucky to have Dias's services; however, Everton are highly unlikely to even consider making the move. Dias, on the other hand, will likely stay at Etihad Stadium for at least another season.
