Bernardo Silva ‘eyes’ Man City exit as club works on transfer for Brighton defender

Bernardo Silva wants to leave Manchester City for Barcelona this summer, according to reports.

The Portuguese midfielder, who was named in the PFA Team of the Year for his performances last season, is said to be interested in joining Barcelona this summer, as per Mundo Deportivo.

However, the site claims Barcelona will only pursue a deal for Silva, if they can first sell Frenkie de Jong, who cross-town rivals Manchester United have been linked with.

They add that the Sky Blues midfielder has ‘already spoken’ to the La Liga side and is in ‘constant’ contact with them about a switch to the Camp Nou, however, no formal bid has been made.

In order to facilitate the move for Silva, Xavi’s side would have to pay a ‘fixed’ €80m fee with €20m in add-ons - something they will struggle to do with their current financial hardship.

Silva’s contract at the Etihad currently runs until 2025, and with his impressive form for City, it’s no surprise Pep Guardiola wants a sizable figure for the midfielder.

Elsewhere, the Sky Blues are expected to bolster their squad next season in preparation of their Premier League title defence.

Guardiola is rumoured to be interested in signing several players during the summer transfer window, with Kalvin Phillips and Marc Cucurella his first targets, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Italian journalist took to Twitter to provide the latest on City’s pursuit for the Leeds United and Brighton stars.

He said: “Manchester City are working on both Marc Cucurella and Kalvin Phillips deals. First official bid for Cucurella will be submitted soon, while Phillips is considered the main target to replace Fernandinho.”

Romano also had an update on Guardiola’s plans for new arrival Julian Alvarez, who is likely to play understudy to fellow new face Erling Haaland.

“On Julián Álvarez: many approaches, no intention to loan him out,” he added.