Atletico Madrid are launching a bid for Benfica defender Ruben Dias.

AS says Atletico have stepped up their interest in Dias over the past month after being tipped off by Portugal-based scouts.

Atletico talent spotters posted to follow Alex Grimaldo came away from Benfica games full of praise for teammate Dias.

The Madrid giants are now ready to splash out to bring Dias to Spain.

The defender is tied to Benfica until 2023 with a buyout clause set at €60m.