- Bernardo Silva expected to leave City
- Fresh transfer update now shared
- European clubs remain in the race
Bernardo Silva’s expected Manchester City exit has taken another turn, with a fresh report now changing the picture around his next move.
Bernardo Silva’s exit is all but confirmed as the midfielder sent an emotional message to fans on X mid-April. The Portuguese midfielder will see his contract expire alongside John Stones.
The latter is also expected not to see his contract renewed, but an official announcement of his departure is still pending.
Nevertheless, Stones will be looking at his options before summer hits. Silva is also hoping to make a decision soon, as the midfielder doesn’t want to play the World Cup clubless.
The official World Cup squads haven’t been announced yet. However, the midfielder is expected to make the cut for this year’s competition.
Nevertheless, Silva is also drawing attention from Premier League clubs, but reports suggest that he might not stay in England after his City stint.
Fresh Bernardo Silva transfer update
According to Football Insider, Silva might opt out of staying on the Isles after contract expiration. With recent interest from Arsenal and Chelsea, there were reports of a possible switch to Man City’s rivals.
However, just like Stones, the Portuguese international is more likely to move abroad. Interest from Spain and Italy continues, but a decision is yet to be made.
“Bernardo Silva is ready for a new challenge, and that will probably be abroad. Barcelona are very keen on signing him,” transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke said on the Transfer Insider podcast.
“I don’t think Silva himself would want to move to another Premier League club once he leaves City.”
FC Barcelona’s midfield is full
Silva was previously offered to FC Barcelona. The Catalan capital also remains the midfielder’s preferred destination.
However, the Spanish giants aren’t keen on adding another midfielder to their roster. The club listed seven midfielders for their 25/26 squad, and Silva will find minutes hard to come by at Camp Nou.
Barcelona are also busy with transfer targets in the attack and defence. Despite having a good relationship with Silva’s agent, the move remains on the fence.
Man City still looking for Silva’s replacement
The Sky Blues are also loaded with midfielders, but they don’t really have a player of Silva’s profile. The Portuguese midfielder has always wanted a new challenge.
Hence, a contract expiration was the cleanest way to handle the exit. Forcing another season out of Silva wasn’t in anyone’s interest, as a decline in a few years due to age is inevitable.
However, the Citizens haven’t been able to find a replacement yet. The Carabao Cup winners are still in the market for a versatile and press-resistant midfielder, and they’ll be hoping to find their replacement this summer.
