Barcelona is once again preparing to strip Man City of talent

Barcelona has set its sights on a Man City player for the 2026 summer transfer window, extending the enduring tradition of dealings between these two teams.

Barcelona and Man City share a special connection through coach Pep Guardiola. Under the leadership of the Spanish manager, the Etihad side gradually developed the short-passing, low-touch style typical of Catalonia.

As a result, The Citizens' players often adapt easily to Barcelona’s style of play. Examples include Ferran Torres, Eric Garcia, Ilkay Gundogan, and Joao Cancelo.

Barcelona is reportedly eager to continue this tradition by focusing on Bernardo Silva. Their interest in Silva is not new. Over several seasons, the Catalan club has closely monitored him, but financial constraints have blocked any concrete moves.

Now, the situation has changed. Bernardo Silva’s contract is nearing its end, and signing him would come without a transfer fee — a crucial factor for a club that must carefully manage every financial decision like Barcelona..

At Camp Nou, the management understands that opportunities like this don’t come every summer: a proven player with leadership qualities and extensive top-level European experience — exactly the kind of profile Barcelona currently needs.

Returning to LaLiga is an appealing idea for Silva. His technical skills, game intelligence, and teamwork mindset are considered highly compatible with Spanish football. Barcelona believes this midfielder could integrate immediately.

He can operate as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, or winger, offering tactical flexibility to the coach. Additionally, his quiet leadership and big-stage experience would be valuable assets for a young, developing squad.

However, Barcelona is not the only contender. Saudi Arabian clubs have shown strong interest, ready to lure Bernardo Silva with a financially superior offer. For them, the Portuguese midfielder represents an ideal figure to elevate their league: money, a key role, and a long-term contract have all been proposed.

Nevertheless, Bernardo Silva and his close circle prioritize sporting factors. Continuing to compete at the highest European level remains the top goal. The upcoming summer promises to be pivotal. Silva will consider all offers carefully before making his final choice.

If Barcelona manages to balance their wage budget, the Portuguese midfielder could become one of LaLiga’s biggest signings — a blend of talent, experience, and ambition.

According to the rules, Barcelona can approach and negotiate with Bernardo Silva starting from the next winter transfer window. As a club outside England, they are allowed to negotiate with players whose contracts are close to expiration.