Swapping Black's main defender.

With moves like Re3-g3 and Bb3+ coming up, White has an overwhelming advantage.

Creating new opportunities on the queenside.

Speeding up the Na4-b6 plan.

With the decisive threat of 9 Rd7, which can't be parried.

Preparing g3-g4 to soften up Black's kingside.

1...Bxd4 2.exd4 Nf6 3.g4! fxg4 4.Rbe1 gxh3 5.Qxh3 Black is also under pressure.

3...Nxg4? 4.Bxg7 Qxg7 5.Ne6! +-

The only defence