Manchester City has reached a principle agreement with star center-back Ruben Dias for a long-term contract extension, according to sources from ESPN and The Athletic.

The 28-year-old Portuguese defender, whose current deal runs until 2027, is set to commit his future to the Etihad Stadium, reinforcing City’s defensive backbone as they aim for continued dominance in the Premier League and beyond.

This development marks a significant milestone for the club, signaling their intent to build a stable and formidable squad capable of sustaining success at the highest levels of European football.

Since joining from Benfica in 2020 for a hefty transfer fee of £62 million, Dias has quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Pep Guardiola’s squad.

His arrival brought immediate solidity to a defense that had occasionally shown vulnerabilities in previous seasons.

Over the past three years, Dias has played a pivotal role in helping Manchester City secure four consecutive Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, and multiple domestic honors such as the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup.

His influence extends beyond mere defensive duties; his leadership qualities have been widely praised by teammates, coaches, and pundits alike.

In 2021, Dias was inducted into City’s prestigious captaincy group, a testament to his importance within the squad and his ability to inspire those around him.

His leadership on and off the pitch has been instrumental in shaping the team’s winning mentality.

Moreover, his debut season was marked by exceptional performances that earned him the Premier League Player of the Year award, an accolade rarely bestowed upon defenders, highlighting his exceptional impact.

With over 200 appearances for the club, Dias has become synonymous with Manchester City’s defensive resilience and tactical discipline.

The new contract, while still being finalized, underscores Manchester City’s commitment to retaining key players amid a transitional phase within the club.

Sporting director Hugo Viana, recently appointed to oversee squad planning, has emphasized the importance of securing the futures of core players such as Dias to maintain continuity and competitive edge.

This move comes at a crucial time as the club prepares for the challenges of the upcoming season, including defending their domestic titles and competing fiercely in the Champions League.

Fans have expressed overwhelming enthusiasm about the news of Dias’s contract extension.

Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), have been abuzz with positive reactions, celebrating the club’s ability to hold onto one of their most influential players.

Supporters see this as a major boost, believing that Dias’s presence will continue to provide the defensive stability required for Manchester City to compete at the highest level.

The extension also reassures fans that the club remains focused on long-term success rather than short-term fixes.

In addition to Dias, Manchester City is reportedly prioritizing contract renewals for other key stars such as Rodri and Phil Foden.

These strategic moves indicate a broader plan to retain a core group of talented players who have been integral to the club’s recent achievements.

By securing these contracts, City aims to prevent potential poaching by rival clubs and to maintain squad harmony and experience.

Dias’s extension not only strengthens the defensive line but also sends a message to competitors that Manchester City is fully committed to sustaining its dominance.

The Portuguese defender’s tactical intelligence, composure under pressure, and ability to organize the backline are invaluable assets that complement Guardiola’s attacking philosophy.

His presence allows the team to build from the back confidently, facilitating the fluid style of play that has become City’s trademark.

Looking ahead, the official confirmation of Dias’s new contract is eagerly awaited by fans and analysts alike.