Barcelona are making significant moves in the transfer market, with a third potential signing on the horizon. Following reported agreements for Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon and moves for Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, the Catalan club are now reportedly close to securing the services of Manchester City veteran Bernardo Silva.
The 31-year-old Portuguese midfielder is nearing the end of his contract with Manchester City after nine years at the Etihad Stadium and is expected to depart on a free transfer. Silva has been a consistent target for Barcelona over the past three years, and recent reports indicate that renewed interest has materialized.
While Atletico Madrid also showed interest and held positive discussions with Silva, and Juventus made an approach, the midfielder is reportedly prioritizing a move to Barcelona, where some of his family resides. His agent, Jorge Mendes, who has strong connections with Barcelona, has been granted full authority to finalize the agreement.
According to SportItalia, as cited by Sport, Barcelona and Bernardo Silva have reached an understanding on personal terms for a two-year contract. The official announcement is anticipated when it best suits Barcelona’s financial situation regarding their salary cap. Silva has expressed a willingness to join Atletico but is giving Barcelona his utmost priority.
Meanwhile, Marca reports that Silva is actively working towards a move to Barcelona. However, there is still uncertainty regarding coach Hansi Flick’s final approval for the transfer. While some outlets suggest the deal is all but done, club sources have confirmed to ESPN that Silva is a “real option.” Previously, it was understood that Flick believed the midfield was already sufficiently stocked and that signing Silva would not be a priority, a stance that also reportedly hindered the pursuit of Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni.
