Manchester City Eyeing Move For Portuguese International Star

A recent transfer story that has certainly sent shivers down a majority of Manchester City supporters’ spines has been talk of Bernardo Silva’s potential move to Barcelona.

After edging close to a possible switch to the La Liga giants last summer, the Portuguese international utlimately ended up staying in the North-West of England.

The midfield maestro arguably produced his best football throughout his career last term, emerging as one of Europe’s most in-form players as he played a pivotal role in Manchester City becoming champions of England for the second season in a row.

However, the possible departure of Bernardo Silva this summer could force the Sky Blues to turn their attention to fellow countryman Matheus Nunes as a replacement.

The Sporting CP lynchpin became a household name amongst football fans after Pep Guardiola described him as ‘one of the best players in the world’ following the first leg of the two sides’ Champions League last-16 encounter last season.

Matheus Nunes in action for Portugal.

In addition, it was revealed in March that Manchester City and Sporting officials held an ‘informal’ discussion about the 23-year old.

While the subject of Matheus Nunes was not the reason behind why both parties held a meeting, it is a safe assumption to make that the English giants utilised the rare sit-down to their advantage.

Despite the Premier League champions most certainly being interested in a move for the Portuguese midfielder a couple of months ago, a new update has revealed that the club have reignited their interest.

As per a report by Jacque Talbot of Football Transfers, Manchester City are eyeing a move for Matheus Nunes in the summer.

It is worth noting that Pep Guardiola’s side face competition for his signature from ‘over ten clubs’ that include the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, and four clubs from the Premier League in Manchester United, Wolves, Newcastle and Everton.

However, it has been claimed that while the Sporting star is ‘certainly’ headed for a switch to the Premier League, PSG are ‘actively’ in talks with the in-demand star.

Further details suggest that ‘discussions’ have been initiated between the Portuguese giants and several other clubs in the race to sign Nunes.

Additionally, it is also mentioned that offers in the region of €35 million have also been made, but the identities of the clubs are yet to be revealed.

Matheus Nunes has been linked with both Manchester City and Manchester United

The report further states that the player has his sights set on a club playing in Europe, which potentially diminishes the chances of Wolves, Newcastle and Everton of winning the race for his signature.

A crucial detail that has also emerged is that Sporting are demanding €60 million in accordance with the Portuguese international’s release clause.

However, it is ‘likely’ that a bid closer to €45 million will get ‘accepted’ by the Primeira Liga side to sanction his sale.

While only time will tell whether Bernardo Silva stays at Manchester City, the potential addition of Matheus Nunes could prove to be an excellent coup, regardless of the circumstances.

Ultimately, Ilkay Gundogan is set to turn 32 in October this year, which could mean that the silky operator could be a signing in the middle of the park that aids the club in the present as well as the future.