Bernardo Silva agrees to leave Man City and join Barcelona

Cameron Smith
Cameron Smith
  • 3 Jul 2022 19:21 BST
  • 3 min read
Bernardo Silva, Man City, 2021-22
© ProShots

Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva is reportedly ready to leave the club this summer and finally jump ship to Barcelona.

The Portuguese international was linked with a move to the Blaugrana last year, but a move didn't materialise, and Silva became an integral member of Pep Guardiola's squad in the 2021/22 season.

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However, despite featuring in all but three of Man City's Premier League games last campaign, he has now told his agent Jorge Mendes that he wants to join Barcelona, according to reports in Spain.

Sport have reported that Silva has informed Mendes that he wants to leave Man City this summer and join Xavi's squad on the Spanish coast.

But, a transfer away will be difficult. First of all, Guardiola and Man City don't want to lose the midfielder and have slapped a €100 million price tag on his head, according to the report.

In addition to this, Silva's contract at Etihad Stadium isn't set to expire until 2025, meaning Man City hold all the cards in regards to his future and are well within their right to demand such a large sum for one of their most important players.

The 27-year-old's prospective move to Camp Nou will be heavily influenced by whether Frenkie de Jong stays or goes, however. The Dutchman has been told by Barcelona that he must agree to a wage cut or he will be sold to Manchester United, who are extremely keen to sign him this summer.

Frenkie de Jong or Bernardo Silva

Reports claim that Man Utd and Barcelona are close to agreeing a deal that could be worth up to €65m (£56m) for De Jong, but the final decision lies with the player himself.

Frenkie de Jong could play a decisive role in Barcelona's pursuit of Bernardo Silva
© ProShots - Frenkie de Jong could play a decisive role in Barcelona's pursuit of Bernardo Silva

If De Jong doesn't accept Barcelona's terms then the Blaugrana may be able to finance a move for Silva, although it will still be tricky given Man City's asking price. In fact, Sport have claimed that Xavi's side want to lower the price for Silva by €40m to have a chance of signing him.

Barcelona are yet to make any additions during this transfer window, but Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen are set to be unveiled on free transfers soon.

Jules Kounde, Robert Lewandowski, Carlos Soler, Marcos Alonso, Cesar Azpilicueta and Raphinha have also been linked with a transfer to Camp Nou this summer.

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