Mourinho pushed Real Madrid to sign Man City superstar but move ruled out | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s search for another central defender remains active despite an already busy summer in the transfer market, but one of Jose Mourinho’s preferred targets appears increasingly difficult to sign.

According to MARCA (h/t Madrid Xtra), the new Real Madrid manager has identified Manchester City defender Ruben Dias as his ideal addition at the heart of the defence. 

However, the Premier League side has made its position clear by refusing to consider offers for one of the most important players on the roster.

Ruben Dias is Mourinho’s preferred target

Real Madrid have already strengthened several positions this summer through the arrivals of Marc Cucurella, Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries, but the club’s transfer planning is not yet complete.

Mourinho’s preferred option is Ruben Dias. (Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images)

A new centre-back remains part of Mourinho’s plans, particularly if departures create additional space in the squad before the transfer window closes.

Several names have been linked with the Santiago Bernabeu in recent weeks, including Nico Schlotterbeck and Alessandro Bastoni, but the report claims Mourinho’s first choice has consistently been Ruben Dias.

The Portuguese international is admired for his leadership, experience and ability to organise a defensive line, qualities Mourinho considers essential for his new Real Madrid project.

Manchester City not interested in selling

Although Mourinho’s interest is genuine, Manchester City are not prepared to negotiate.

Man City will not allow Dias to leave. (Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images)

The report states that the Premier League club continue to regard Dias as one of the foundations of their defensive structure, making him effectively unavailable in the current market.

Even so, one factor could still become relevant if the situation changes later in the transfer window.

Dias is represented by Jorge Mendes, whose long-standing relationship with both Mourinho and Real Madrid has helped facilitate several high-profile transfers over the years.

While Mendes cannot alter Manchester City’s current position, his involvement could provide Madrid with an important line of communication should circumstances evolve in the future.