Last summer, Bernardo Silva’s future at the club was in massive doubt. The midfielder was reportedly ‘unhappy’ with the Manchester lifestyle and wanted a move back to a warmer climate, closer to his family.
However, in a Covid market, there were no suitable buyers for Silva, who still has a Manchester City contract that runs until 2025.
Pep Guardiola vocally told the press that players were allowed to leave if their agents brought offers to the table, but not ones that would see them leave at a cut-price.
Silva was one who had interest from various clubs abroad, but none were able to stump up a decent transfer fee.
Recent reports have suggested the 27-year-old is much happier nearly 12 months down the line. Lockdown restrictions in the country have easied, allowing players to jet off and see their families on a regular basis.
City are targetting a central midfielder this summer with club captain Fernandinho’s contract set to expire and the player himself announcing he will not be signing an extension.
Guardiola is reportedly a long-term admirer of de Jong and attempted to sign him three years ago from Ajax – when the Dutchman instead opted to join the La Liga giants.
His career at the Camp Nou has certainly not gone to plan, and a link-up with the Catalan might be the move de Jong needs to revitalise his stalling career and unlock his infinite potential.
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