Barcelona have not abandoned their pursuit of Manchester City star Bernardo Silva, and are still trying to find a way to complete a deal for the midfielder despite their financial troubles.
Silva is keen on a fresh challenge away from the treble-winners and is interested in a move to the La Liga giants. However, City have reportedly slapped a £75m price tag on the Portugal star, a price Barcelona are unlikely to be able to afford right now.
90min has now reported that Barcelona are attempting to solve their financial issues to generate enough space for him, and they are currently in talks with agent Jorge Mendes over what could become a very expensive deal for the 28-year-old.
If they can sell Franck Kessie, they will still likely need to sell at least one more big asset to be able to afford Silva.
Why do Barcelona want Bernardo Silva?
Xavi has already strengthened his midfield with the signings of Oriol Romeu and Ilkay Gundogan, whilst he has Raphinha, Ferran Torres, Ousmane Dembele and Ansu Fati as wide options.
Silva can play both centrally and on the right, and if he arrives for a big fee, it may perhaps indicate that one of, or even both, Raphinha and Torres could depart.
The Portugal star has played an integral role for City over the years, and Barcelona have long admired the midfielder, who was dubbed “world-class” during a particularly good spell of form for City.
His technique, vision and elite end product makes him an ideal fit for Barcelona’s style, and given his strong desire to join the club, it may be worth trying every possible route to bring Silva to La Liga.
Silva chipped in with seven goals and eight assists last season, and was one of the best players on the pitch as City thrashed Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals. If Barcelona are able to recruit him alongside Gundogan, they will have brought in two of Man City’s finest midfielders.