Paulo Silva, the father of Manchester City midfielder Bernardo, has revealed that his son held talks with Barcelona over a potential move this summer.
The Portugal international was one of the Spanish giants’ main targets of the window with boss Xavi keen to land the talent. However, the right offer failed to arrive at “the right time” and a transfer never materialised.
The Catalan club are in masses of debt and had to sell off assets in order to manoeuvre within La Liga finance rules. They had to jump through several hurdles in order to register new arrivals Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Jules Kounde amid their cash problems.
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Paulo Silva hinted that this was one reason why Bernardo was unsure about a move although conceded that “a lot of talks” had been held amid their interest. Speaking to Stats Perform via Mundo Deportivo, he said: “There were a lot of talks, but no concrete offer was made at the times we thought were right.
“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.”
He added: “He is a mature player, he is 28-years-old. Things have to be done rationally, not emotionally.”
Since his 2017 switch from Monaco, Bernardo Silva has scored 50 times - two of which have come this season - and assisted 53 more in 259 appearances. Guardiola was eager to keep hold of him throughout the summer and confirmed ahead of deadline day that he had succeeded in his mission having received no formal offers.
“Bernardo Silva is staying. Absolutely," he said. We haven't had any phone call from any club regarding Bernardo. That's why he will stay.”
Silva featured against Barcelona in last month's friendly at the Nou Camp.
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