Bernardo Silva would like to leave Manchester City this summer despite recapturing his best form for the club last season, according to reports.
The 26-year-old scored five goals and laid on nine assists as City reclaimed the Premier League title and reached the Champions League final in 2020-21. But in spite of his improved displays after a challenging 2019-20 campaign, The Athletic reports the Portugal star is keen on leaving the Etihad Stadium this summer and pursuing a new adventure elsewhere.
The report claims Silva was left ‘crestfallen’ after a move to Barcelona hit a snag late on despite everything looking set to go through during last summer’s transfer window.
But the Portugal international’s attempts to leave could be frustrated by boss Pep Guardiola, who is keen to retain him as part of his squad ahead of the defence of their Premier League crown in 2021-22.
The Catalan boss has been impressed with the midfielder’s recent performances and application for City, which have come despite a reported desire to leave.
Atletico Madrid has also been linked with a move for the City star – who has another four years remaining on his contract after signing fresh terms in March 2019 – in a swap deal with Saul Niguez.
