As the Portuguese star prepares to leave Manchester City, agent Jorge Mendes has knocked on Barcelona’s door but the Catalan giants are hesitant.
The long-standing transfer saga between Bernardo Silva and FC Barcelona has reached a decisive chapter. With his cycle at Manchester City coming to an end, the Portuguese playmaker has reportedly instructed his agent, Jorge Mendes, to prioritize a move to the Camp Nou.
According to Spanish outlet Sport, Bernardo is eager for a new challenge after winning every possible trophy under Pep Guardiola. However, despite his undisputed world-class quality, Barcelona’s board is surprisingly hesitant.
The “Pedri” Roadblock
The primary reason for Barcelona’s doubt isn’t financial, but tactical. The club is currently “extremely satisfied” with the performance of Pedri and the emerging midfield talents in the squad.
- The Dilemma: Does Barcelona need a 31-year-old (in 2026) Bernardo Silva when they have a core of young stars dominating the pitch?
- The Fit: While Silva’s versatility is a “hand-in-glove” fit for the Blaugrana DNA, the club’s priority remains titles with their current foundation rather than high-wage veteran signings.
Plan B: Juventus or a Romantic Return?
If Barcelona passes on the opportunity, Bernardo Silva won’t be short of options.
- Juventus: The Italian giants have already made multiple approaches and are desperate for a creative spark in their midfield.
- Benfica: A return to his boyhood club is also on the table, with the Lisbon side reportedly offering a long-term “career plan” for the midfielder.
The Great Manchester City Exodus
Bernardo isn’t the only star set to leave the Etihad in 2026. Reports suggest a major squad overhaul is underway, with defensive stalwarts Nathan Aké and John Stones also expected to depart. Both players have seen their minutes reduced under Guardiola and are seeking new challenges as the club looks to rejuvenate the squad for the next European season.
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
