Dias and O'Reilly close to new City deals

 

MAN CITY DOUBLE BOOST: DIAS AND O'REILLY ON VERGE OF SIGNING NEW DEALS

Manchester City have reached agreements in principle with Rúben Dias and Nico O’Reilly over new contracts, securing the futures of two players seen as important to the club's present and future. While the specific terms of the deals have not yet been disclosed, both players are expected to commit to long-term extensions beyond their current agreements.

Dias, now 28, has been a mainstay in City’s defence since his £65 million move from Benfica in 2020. A key figure in Pep Guardiola’s squad, the Portuguese international has already amassed over 220 appearances and played a vital role in the club’s historic run of four Premier League titles, the Champions League, and the FA Cup. His leadership at the back has been instrumental in defining City’s dominant era under Guardiola.

Meanwhile, Nico O’Reilly, a product of City’s youth academy, emerged as one of last season’s surprise breakout stars. With injuries hampering City’s depth across multiple positions, the 20-year-old stepped up, often filling in at left-back, a position unfamiliar to him prior to the campaign. Despite the challenge, O’Reilly impressed across 21 appearances, showing tactical maturity and composure beyond his years. His current contract was due to run until 2028, but City have moved early to reward his progress and ensure he remains part of their long-term plans.

While new deals are being wrapped up, the focus now shifts to potential outgoings. Manchester City are expected to offload several players before the 1 September transfer deadline.

Jack Grealish and Kalvin Phillips, both currently sidelined from first-team action—with Phillips recovering from Achilles surgery—remain on the club's books but have yet to attract serious interest. City are open to offers, but any departure would depend on player recovery and potential suitors matching valuation.

Young midfielder James McAtee has drawn concrete attention, with clubs from both the Premier League and Bundesliga expressing interest. Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace are among the sides closely monitoring the 21-year-old, who spent last season gaining valuable experience in cup and rotation matches.

With James Trafford’s arrival strengthening City’s goalkeeping department, Stefan Ortega has emerged as the most likely candidate for a move should any offers materialise. Ortega served as Ederson’s primary backup last season and remains a dependable option between the posts.

City returned to training on 28 July, following their Club World Cup exit. An open training session is scheduled for Tuesday as the squad continues preparations for the upcoming season, with Guardiola expected to finalise his squad decisions over the next few weeks.