Barcelona Receive Major Blow In Pursuit Of Manchester City Ace

There is no expectation for Bernardo Silva to force a Manchester City exit amid interest from Barcelona this summer, as per a new report.

The Portugal international has emerged as a top target for the Blaugrana, who are keen on adding Silva to their ranks to bolster their midfield.

However, with three years left on the 27-year-old's current contract at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City are understood to have placed a sizeable asking price for Bernardo Silva.

Bernardo Silva celebrates Manchester City's Premier League trophy success (Alamy)

Silva was believed to be keen on taking up a new challenge last summer after failing to get his desired move closer to Portugal in 2020.

However, despite wide interest in the four-time Premier League winner, the financial constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic on clubs across Europe meant no top side could afford the Manchester City ace.

In an interview with The Times in March, Silva admitted wanting to leave due to personal reasons as he did not kick a fuss after having to stay put at the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City and Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva (Image: Alamy)

The former AS Monaco man, who joined City for £43 million in 2017, enjoyed his best season in England by registering 13 goals and seven assists in 50 appearances across all competitions for Pep Guardiola's side.

Real Madrid were believed to be targeting a sensational swoop for the Lisbon-born midfielder in the spring but sources close to the Champions League holders confirmed subsequently there were no plans over a move for Silva.

Barcelona hold a long-standing interest in Bernardo Silva, who has been attracted to the prospect of playing for the Spanish side in the past.

Bernardo Silva and Rodri celebrate after Manchester City take the lead against Burnley (Image: PA / Alamy)

Amidst a widely known financial crisis, the Catalan outfit are not in a position to finance huge sums for transfers without offloading several players first.

Frenkie de Jong has been linked with a move to Manchester United and the Red Devils' pursuit of the Netherlands international could play a key role in Barcelona's desire of bringing Bernardo Silva to the Camo Nou.

Barcelona boss Xavi has approved the signing of Silva and would like to bring the Manchester City star in as a replacement for De Jong - should the latter leave this summer.

Bernardo Silva during Manchester City's title celebrations (Image: Alamy)

However, according to the latest information of Pol Ballus of The Athletic, Manchester City have till date not received a formal offer for Silva from Barcelona.

A key reason for the above is Barcelona's financial situation, which has left Bernardo Silva, who is not expected to force a move to Spain, relaxed over his future as he enjoys his holiday after another league winning campaign.

Manchester City will maintain their stance of not forcing a player actively seeking an exit to stay but will only entertain offers for Bernardo Silva if they match their valuation of the midfielder.

It remains unlikely Barcelona will be able to afford a swoop for the Portuguese, who is expected to stay put at the Etihad Stadium into next season.