Earlier today, reports emerged claiming that Manchester City had formally informed Barcelona that Bernardo Silva will not be allowed to leave the club this summer.
The Premier League and European champions have no intention of letting go of their star midfielder this summer and will not negotiate in any manner for him.
Given Barcelona’s interest in signing the 28-year-old and Man City’s strong stance, the player’s position on the matter becomes extremely crucial.
And, Ferran Martinez of Mundo Deportivo is now reporting that Bernardo harbours hopes of joining Barcelona this summer but wants to leave Manchester City on good terms.
Bernardo expects Barcelona to start talks soon
In order to achieve an amicable departure, Silva wants Barcelona to first initiate official negotiations with Manchester City soon.
The 28-year-old Portuguese international expects the La Liga champions to start contacts with the Cityzens at the earliest, possibly between their FA Community Shield clash tomorrow and the start of the Premier League season on August 11.
Once Barça have started official talks with Man City will Silva convey his desire to leave to manager Pep Guardiola.
The iconic tactician stated in an interview earlier this week that he does not wish to have a player in his squad who does not want to be there.
“I don’t want any players who don’t want to be here. But we need to get a proper offer, we didn’t get a proper offer. If they want him, they will get on a plane and come to meet our club,” he said.
Silva wants Barcelona move
The report further goes on to state that Silva wishes to join Barcelona and has been wishing to do so since the last two years, which is why he has not signed a new contract at the Etihad Stadium.
Both the player and his partner wish to move to Barça than continue in Manchester. But he has great respect for City and will not make a move until official negotiations are underway between the two clubs.
The 2022/23 treble-winners are planning another new renewal offer for Silva and wish to convince him by offering lucrative terms and an exciting sports project.
But he will hold out for Barcelona, and will only consider signing the new contract if the move does not materialise.
It is now up to Barça to initiate proceedings and they must do so soon as City will also need time to rope in a replacement if the transfer does indeed go through.
