Bernardo Silva’s father admits ‘there were a lot of talks’ with Barcelona over the summer

Bernardo Silva’s father has admitted there were ‘a lot of talks’ between the midfielder and Barcelona this summer.

The Manchester City star was heavily linked with a move to Spain in the transfer window, but a move never materialised despite things seeming for a while like they would fall into place late in the window.

Speaking to Stats Perform, via Mundo Deportivo, Silva’s father, Paulo, said, ‘it was not the right time for all parties involved’ in the move despite talks talking place, describing the situation as ‘not the ideal scenario’ for his son. 

‘There were a lot of talks, but no concrete offer was made at the times we thought were right,’ he said.

‘When it came, we realised it was no longer the right time for all parties involved. Things have to happen rationally and it wasn’t the ideal scenario for Bernardo.’

Silva was Barcelona’s main target towards the end of the window, but the Catalan club had to focus on registering new signings as soon as possible in a period of financial struggle.

Hector Bellerin and Marcos Alonso were among those that had to be registered, meaning a deal for Silva would have been rushed late on.

Barca boss Xavi is a big admirer or Silva and may try to sign the Portugal international again

Silva has made over 250 appearances for Man City since joining the club from Monaco in 2017

Paulo Silva put emphasis on the timing needing to be right, and that it wasn’t in the summer.

‘He is a mature player, he is 28 years old,’ he added. ‘Things have to be done rationally, not emotionally.’ 

Barca boss Xavi is believed to be a big fan of the midfielder and could go back in for his services at a later date.

It’s unlikely Manchester City would sell during the season, so January may be unlikely, but a move could materialise next summer despite the fact there would still be two years remaining on Silva’s contract.