Manchester City should resist any temptation to sell midfield ace Bernardo Silva this summer amid ongoing links connecting him with a move to Barcelona.
That is according to former QPR and Sheffield United goalkeeper Paddy Kenny, who believes City will be determined to retain the services of the Portuguese international this summer. Bernardo, despite being linked with a move to Juventus last summer over fears that he might not earn enough game time during the 2021/22 campaign, played a pivotal role in helping Pep Guardiola's side scoop another Premier League title crown.
The Portuguese international, who stepped off the bench during his country's 1-0 defeat to Switzerland in the UEFA Nations League on Sunday, racked up 50 appearances in all competitions for City this season, scoring 13 goals and grabbing seven assists. He was one of the Blues' most important components in helping them pip Liverpool to their latest league triumph.
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As well as being consistent, the former AS Monaco ace also showcased his versatility throughout the campaign, playing in central-midfield, out wide and in the false-nine role. He played just as influential a role as anyone, and City, in Kenny's eyes, should be doing all they can to keep hold of him.
"Everyone knows Man City don't need to sell," Kenny told Football Insider. "Bernardo has also just played a massive part in Man City winning the Premier League.
"Barcelona keep being linked with everyone but they can't afford to sign anyone. Real Madrid, that's a fresh start for him.
"They are on a high having just won the Champions League and La Liga. He is still a quality player and he could still play a big role for Man City further down the line so I think they will want to keep him."
It has been reported that Barcelona will switch their focus to signing Bernardo if Manchester United complete a deal to sign Frenkie de Jong. The prospect of the Dutchman leaving the Camp Nou will leave a hole in midfield that Barcelona believe could be filled by the City ace.
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