Mediaset: Man City star ‘a major target’ for Milan – deal difficult but Mendes at work

AC Milan are ready to try and pull off the audacious signing of Ruben Dias from Manchester City, a report claims.

SportMediaset report that Milan is becoming increasingly Portuguese. After Ruben Amorim, Goncalo Ramos, and Diego Moreira (who chose Belgium but holds dual citizenship), the Rossoneri’s next centre-back could also come from Portugal.

Ruben Dias ‘is a major target’ for Milan. It’s a difficult signing due to the costs involved, but with Mendes at the helm it’s hard to believe anything is impossible. It’s now clear that the super agent has taken control of the Diavolo’s transfer business.

He, and his agency Gestifute, signed off on the arrivals of Ramos and Moreira. Now Cardinale has tasked Mendes with finding the new defensive leader and this was likely the main focus of yesterday’s six-hour meeting.

Ruben Dias was on the table, the source are adamant. In a summer of upheaval for City – with the departures of many veterans in addition to that of Pep Guardiola – the former Benfica player’s adventure in Manchester could also be coming to an end.

After six successful years in England, Dias could decide to move on in search of new experience. AC Milan – in search of a world-class centre-back – could be the right choice for him. Of course, the deal would be complex financially: the Portuguese is 29, has a contract until 2029, and an €8m net salary.

Milan have also instructed Mendes to find a team for Rafael Leão. In recent hours, there has been talk of a possible swap between the Portuguese players: Leao to Manchester and Dias to Milan. The idea hasn’t gained traction yet, but it’s worth keeping a close eye on.