Bernardo Silva's agent 'holds talks with Barcelona'

The 27-year-old's long-term future at Manchester City is believed to be uncertain, having previously expressed his desire to seek pastures new.

Barca are believed to be one of the top clubs in Europe who have identified the playmaker as a potential target this summer, and journalist Fabrizio Romano claims that they have held a meeting with the player's agent Mendes.

Romano adds that Silva was the main name mentioned in their discussions and that head coach Xavi is an admirer of the Portugal international.

However, a potential move for Silva to Catalonia is seemingly unlikely at this stage, as Man City value the playmaker at €100m (£85.3m), according to Marca, a figure Barca are unable to afford given their financial predicament.

There is a chance that Barca could finance a deal for Silva this summer if they were to sell midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who has been linked with an €80m move to Manchester United.

Man City manager Pep Guardiola recently admitted that Barcelona "will have a difficult time" attempting to lure Silva away from the Etihad Stadium, with the Spaniard keen for the former Monaco man to remain with the Citizens.

Silva, who still has three years remaining on his contract, scored 13 goals and provided seven assists in 50 appearances for the Premier League champions across all competitions in 2021-22.