Bernardo Silva remains a priority target for Barcelona boss Xavi, should Frenkie de Jong depart the Camp Nou this summer, according to reports from Spain.
The 27-year-old enjoyed another stellar campaign at the Etihad Stadium after failing in his pursuit of an exit last summer, when the Portugal international was understood to be keen on leaving Manchester City to move closer to his homeland.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola snubbed Barcelona's chances of securing the arrival of the former AS Monaco playmaker, stating that the Blaugrana will 'have a difficult time' should they attempt to land the four-time Premier League winner this summer.
Advert
Barcelona have been widely linked with a move for Silva in recent years, with reliable quarters close to Manchester City previously expressing the midfielder was close to signing for the Spanish giants in the summer of 2020.
After helping his side reclaim the Premier League title from Liverpool in 2021, the likes of Atletico Madrid, Juventus and Real Madrid were all linked with a swoop for the Portuguese, who admitted he was searching for a new destination after spending four seasons in Manchester.
However, the financial restraints of the COVID-19 pandemic and Pep Guardiola's desire of holding on to Bernardo Silva meant a move could not materialise, and the star midfielder has since kicked on and picked up further silverware with the Blues.
Advert
Ahead of the upcoming transfer window, a new report from Spain has highlighted Barcelona's interest in Bernardo Silva and why the Manchester City star could be tempted into making a sensational switch to Catalonia.
According to the latest information of Mundo Deportivo, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness, Silva is aware of Barcelona's interest and is 'motivated' to start a new chapter in his career with the La Liga side.
It has been stated that Silva's agent Jorge Mendes has held talks with Barcelona officials several times in recent months and did so most recently on Wednesday, when the super agent was in Spain.
Advert
Bernardo Silva is set for talks with his current club over his future at the Etihad Stadium next week, with three years remaining on his current deal in Manchester.
Whilst Barcelona are yet to make a formal approach for the Portuguese, Silva's childhood links with the Spanish outfit have made him open to leaving Manchester City for the Camp Nou this summer.
It has been said Silva has a 'weakness' for the Blaugrana, who have made the Manchester City star their top target for the summer if Frenkie de Jong departs amid interest from Manchester United.
Advert
However, it is worth noting that whilst being open to the prospect of leaving City for Barcelona, Bernardo Silva would only seek to facilitate an exit by being respectful to Pep Guardiola and his teammates.
Topics: Barcelona, Bernardo Silva, Manchester City, Transfers, Premier League
Vayam Lahoti