Manchester City have reportedly slapped an £80million price tag on Bernardo Silva in an attempt to stave off the interest of Barcelona.
Barca manager Xavi is thought to view Silva as a ‘priority’ signing and the cash-strapped Spanish giants are trying to lure the Portugese star away from the Etihad for the second consecutive summer.
Their financial situation made any move for Silva last year impossible but they have not given up on trying to sign a player who was a key part of Pep Guardiola‘s title-winning team.
Bernardo Silva has been the subject of transfer speculation linking him with a move to Barca
Silva could be reportedly allowed to leave City in the summer – but the club want £80million
According to the Mirror, City hope the £80million fee will force Barca to turn their attention away from Silva, who has 48 goals and 51 assists in 251 games for Guardiola’s side.
It is believed Barca will aim to use the funds generated by the potential sale of Frenkie de Jong, who has been heavily linked with Manchester United, to persuade City to part with Silva.
A separate report on Saturday claims Guardiola and Silva have a secret pact which would allow the Portuguese star to leave the club this summer.
Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo report that Silva has Guardiola’s word that he can depart the Premier League champions in the summer transfer window if he wishes, and if the offer is good for City.
Barcelona manager Xavi is a big fan of Silva and the club have been interested in the past
Silva is contracted at the Etihad until 2025, so any move for one of the stars of City’s Premier League winning season would likely be expensive.
Xavi believes Silva could have the same impact at the Nou Camp, as what himself and legendary midfield partner Andres Iniesta had at the club.
Barca have recently been boosted by the £235m naming rights deal with Spotify and are looking to bolster their squad in order to compete for major honours once again.
However, Barcelona are still struggling economically after years of financial mismanagement and will need to offload players.
Selling Frenkie de Jong to Manchester United could free up much-needed funds for Barca
Silva had heavily been linked with a move away from the Etihad, but enjoyed a fantastic season in which he made the PFA Team of the Year.
The 27-year-old contributed eight goals and registered four assists during 35 top-flight appearances. He also added to his tally with five extra goals during the Champions League and FA Cup.
The Portuguese player has refused to comment on transfer speculation linking him with a move to Barca.
