Ruben Dias has strongly suggested he has played his final game for Benfica, as his manager suggested a deal that includes Manchester City defender Nicolas Otamendi is close to being completed.
City stepped up their interest in Dias, 23, on Friday, with Portuguese sources confirming City had started serious talks over a move for Dias - potentially involving Otamendi.
But Dias was involved in Benfica's 2-0 win over Moreirense on Saturday, captaining the side and scoring the opening goal. After the game, the Portuguese international was emotional, saying it was an important and special occasion for him.
“I am very happy," he said.
"It was a very important game for me and to be able to consecrate the game with a goal, it was very special for me. It is a special moment and I think everyone already knows why.
"The people and the club gave me captaincy, it was very special for me."
If Dias wouldn't be drawn on exactly why the victory was so important, then his manager Jorge Jesus was more open as he confirmed his defender was likely to leave Benfica.
“I'm almost sure it was the last game," Jesus said
"In football, sometimes everything changes at the last second, but I think that will not happen. We are sorry to see you go. It is a product of Seixal, a captain, a national team player. But I also have some blame for him leaving. It has to do with the elimination of the Champions, there are things that have to be balanced and Rúben has a high market."
Jesus then discussed the options for replacing Dias, with Otamendi a possible player to be heading the other way if Dias does join City.
Jesus said: "Otamendi? He is a player who has already shown his worth at FC Porto, he is a player of the Argentine national team and has always been a starter at Manchester City, he just stopped being now.
"Of course, he is a player I like. The player who enters will realize that my ideas are completely different from those he had at Manchester City.
"If I have a choice, I want Rúben. But if I have to have Otamendi, I'm satisfied. In Portugal, he has justified all his value and Pep must not be stupid. If you want Rúben and let Otamendi come here, you should see what we all see."
