Transfer Centre

Barcelona priced out of pursuit for Manchester City's Bernardo Silva?

By Ben Sully | 12 March 2023

Barcelona are reportedly unable to meet Manchester City's asking price for Bernardo Silva, who has been a long-term target for the Catalan club.

Barcelona have reportedly been priced out of a potential transfer for Manchester City attacker Bernardo Silva.

Since joining the Citizens from Monaco in the summer of 2017, Silva has scored 52 goals and provided 56 assists across 288 appearances.

Silva still has a contract with Pep Guardiola's side until June 2025, but he has been linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium.

Barcelona have been long-term admirers of the Portugal international, and they were planning to strike a deal with Man City about a potential transfer this summer.

However, according to reports in Spain, Man City's demands could prevent Barcelona from securing Silva's signature.

Bernardo Silva celebrates scoring for Manchester City on February 18, 2023 © Reuters

The report claims that the Citizens would be looking to receive a fee between €70m (£61.9m) and €80m (£70.1m).

Due to Barcelona's current economic situation, they are unable to meet Man City's asking price, making a deal seem next to impossible.

There is a belief that Silva wants to move to the Catalan giants, and Guardiola will not stand in his way, but the Citizens are keen to receive a significant fee.

A failure to land the 28-year-old would come as a blow to Barcelona boss Xavi, who has reportedly been asking the club to sign Silva since his appointment in November 2021.

With Barcelona set to give up on their pursuit of Silva, they are expected to turn their attention to his Man City teammate Ilkay Gundogan.

Barcelona manager Xavi pictured in September 2022 © Reuters

The Catalan giants are looking to strengthen their midfield in the summer, and Gundogan represents a cost-effective option.

The 32-year-old is currently out of contract in June, and if he does not agree a new deal with the Premier League champions, then Barcelona could sign him on a free transfer.

Silva, meanwhile, could still complete a move away in the summer, following reports that he is attracting interest from French champions Paris Saint-Germain.

The former Monaco man has started 20 of his 25 Premier League appearances this term, scoring four goals and providing five assists.