During the 2022-23 season, Bernardo played a crucial role for Manchester City, contributing seven goals and eight assists in 55 appearances across all competitions. Despite having two years remaining on his contract, the 28-year-old is reportedly keen on leaving the treble-winning side for personal reasons.
Al-Hilal has emerged as a strong contender for Silva's signature, with reports suggesting that the Saudi Arabian club is willing to offer him a lucrative weekly wage of £500,000. It has even been suggested that Al-Hilal could make a substantial bid of £59.8 million to secure his services. However, Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona is still actively pursuing the Portuguese attacker, despite the financial aspect of the deal.
Barcelona's head coach, Xavi, reportedly considers Bernardo Silva as his top target this summer, believing that the player could significantly enhance the team's chances of competing for the Champions League next season. The Catalan club is said to be exploring the possibility of a loan deal for the 2023-24 season, with a permanent transfer scheduled for the following summer.
It is understood that Bernardo favors a move to Barcelona above other potential destinations. However, the financial feasibility of the transfer remains uncertain for the La Liga champions.
Barcelona has already secured the signings of Ilkay Gundogan and Inigo Martinez this summer, acquiring them on free transfers from Manchester City and Athletic Bilbao, respectively.
The team will begin their preparations for the upcoming season with a friendly match against Juventus on July 22, followed by fixtures against Arsenal, Real Madrid, and AC Milan during their pre-season schedule.
While Barcelona clinched the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup last season, they failed to progress past the group stage in the Champions League and were subsequently eliminated from the Europa League in the knockout round playoffs.
Bernardo Silva played an instrumental role in Manchester City's treble-winning campaign, as Pep Guardiola's side secured the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League titles.
