In a recent tweet, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano offered an update on Barcelona and their pursuit of Manchester City star Bernardo Silva. It is understood that Man City have no intention of letting the Portugal international leave this summer despite interest from Barca and Paris Saint-Germain.
Understand Manchester City have told PSG and Barcelona that they have NO intention to negotiate at any condition for Bernardo Silva. 🚨🔵 #MCFC
Man City will also offer new contract to Bernardo very soon.
Player’s position will be crucial; but Man City have been strong & clear. pic.twitter.com/QNPeX58IvF
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 5, 2023
Silva’s Decent Run At The Etihad Stadium Last Season
Silva had another successful campaign at the Mancunian club recently as he put in a string of impressive performances for them in the opponent’s half. The Portuguese sensation scored seven goals and picked up eight assists in 55 appearances for Man City last season across all fronts.
The Lisboa-born sensation proved his worth as a decent performer by averaging 1.3 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, 0.7 shots, 0.9 key passes and 0.8 dribbles per 90 minutes in Premier League football. He was even accurate when interchanging possession with his teammates after completing 89.1% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Etihad Stadium is set to run out in the summer of 2025. Thus, Barcelona would struggle to land him on the cheap in this off-season.
Man City Have No Intention Of Selling Silva This Summer: Big Blow For Barcelona?
Silva is a great dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few energetic runs with the ball in the opponent’s half. He has got the vision to orchestrate some inviting chances for others around him in and around the opponent’s penalty box.
The Portuguese sensation can even strike the ball with venom from long range and usually works his socks off in the final third. He mainly functions in the number ten position but can also operate as a right-sided wide player or as a box-to-box midfielder if required.
Silva would have added more energy and dynamism to Barcelona head coach Xavi‘s attack. Thus, Man City’s reluctance to let him leave would be a big blow for the Catalan giants during this summer transfer period.
Xavi would now have no choice but to turn his attention to some of his other targets if he wants to strengthen his Barca squad ahead of the new campaign.
