It will take around £75m to prise Bernardo Silva away from Manchester City this summer should Barcelona firm up their interest in the midfielder, according to a report in the Athletic.
Xavi’s interest in the Portuguese star is no secret, but it is unclear whether they will have the financial muscle to pull off a deal. Pep Guardiola will not stand in his way should Silva wish to depart, telling the media that ‘as of today, I think Bernardo will continue at Man City next season – but as I always said, I don’t like to keep players that are unhappy’.
Pep Guardiola on Bernardo Silva and Barça interest: “As of today, I think Bernardo will continue at Man City next season – but as I always said, I don’t like to keep players that are unhappy”. 🔵 #MCFC
Bernardo, waiting for Barça as Xavi wants him – but also depends on de Jong.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 20, 2022
And, as per the Athletic, ‘Bernardo’s future likely hinges on whether Barcelona can actually raise enough money to spend at least £75 million’, with Silva far from the only star that they have shown interest in.
The Camp Nou side are also thought to be keen on moves for Leeds United winger Raphinha and Sevilla defender Jules Kounde, while they are still yet to register new additions Andreas Christensen and Franck Kessie.
All told, it will require a significant outlay.
The latest on De Jong
One way to aid their coffers would be the sale of Frenkie de Jong, who Manchester United are thought to be incredibly interested in bringing to Old Trafford this summer.
As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the move is a ‘serious possibility’, though the Red Devils will have to up their opening 60m euro offering.
Manchester United are discussing internally about submitting a new proposal for Frenkie de Jong in the next days. It’s a serious possibility, while talks with Barça are still on. 🚨🇳🇱 #MUFC
Deal will enter into key stages after €60m [& add-ons] verbal, opening bid turned down. pic.twitter.com/S434UHZXCL
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2022
Should they do so, it could pave the way for Xavi to finally land Bernardo Silva.
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