It’s common knowledge that Bernardo Silva wanted out of Manchester City in 2021 and 2022 amid interest from Barcelona, but Pep Guardiola managed to keep his talisman because the Catalans failed to lodge an acceptable bid.
The links with Barcelona aren’t going away, however, and the 28-year-old was asked about his City future in a recent interview with Portuguese outlet Record (h/t Sport Witness).
Silva batted away the question, saying: “I’m very focused on this season and it doesn’t make sense to talk about leaving because we’re in the middle of the season.
“I’ve been at Manchester City for almost six years, I have a lot of respect for the club, news keeps coming out and people know that there have been talks between me and the club.”
The Portuguese international has two-and-a-half years left on his contract, so City aren’t obligated to cash in early. Guardiola says he will grant a move to any player that requests it, so Barcelona might only need to lodge a proper offer to bring him to Spain. Time will tell.
Silva has made 275 appearances in all competitions since joining from Benfica, scoring 50 goals with 56 assists. He’s one of the best midfielders in Europe and boasts higher levels of industry than most.
It’s little wonder why Barcelona want to sign him and little wonder why City want to keep him.
In other news, West Ham eye Kalvin Phillips who’s been ‘highly-rated’ by David Moyes
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