Barcelona ‘target Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva’ as de Jong continues to be linked with United 

Barcelona are considering a move for Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva this summer.

City’s interest in Silva comes as Manchester United continue to be linked with a move for Frenkie de Jong. 

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, Silva has already informed City of his desire to leave and has made it clear that his preference is to join Barcelona.

On Monday Guardiola and several City representatives will be in Barcelona to discuss the friendly between Barcelona and City, which will take place on August 24 at the Nou Camp.

The game is being played to raise funds for research against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), with former Barcelona coach Juan Carlos Unzue suffering with the disease.

Given that Guardiola will be in Barcelona, it gives the Catalan club an opportunity to talk about a potential deal for Silva.

Frenkie de Jong could leave Barcelona with Manchester United still looking to sign him

Barcelona manager Xavi sees Silva as a good option to add to the creativity in his team

Silva has three years remaining on his contract at City and has made a major impact since joining the club in 2017.

In that time Silva has played 251 times for City, during which he has scored 48 goals and provided 51 assists. He has won an array of trophies, including four Premier League titles, the FA Cup and four League Cups.

Given that he is capable of making a major impact as an attacking midfielder or out wide, Silva is an appealing option for Barcelona boss Xavi as he looks to strengthen his squad.

De Jong, meanwhile, continues to be linked with a move away from Barcelona and is United’s priority in the transfer market. 

Losing de Jong would represent a blow for Barcelona, but although he wouldn’t be a direct replacement, signing Silva would reduce the impact of the Dutchman’s departure.