Barcelona handed DREAM transfer boost by change in PSG's Mbappe plans

Tom Weber

Updated: 27 May 2024 17:10 BST
3 min read

PSG have given up on signing Bernardo Silva, according to French media.

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The Parisians' interest in the Man City superstar had been long-standing due to Silva's compatriot, PSG sporting director Luis Campos. The Ligue 1 champions previously tried in vain to get the Premier League giants to sell, with Pep Guardiola unwilling to entertain any offers for the playmaker.

Strangely, PSG's priorities have now shifted when Silva is perhaps the most attainable he has been since joining City. The Portuguese extended his contract last year and the deal includes a release clause, which takes the Cityzens out of the equation.

Le Parisien reports that the French behemoth have decided to end their pursuit of Silva after talks between Campos and head coach Luis Enrique. It was decided, it is claimed, that signing a new left-winger to replace Kylian Mbappe should be the priority this summer.

This, then, is brilliant news for Man City but also, potentially, for Barcelona.

Silva to Barca?

That is because the 29-year-old is also one of the most admired players in Catalunya. Barcelona have been keen on the Portugal international for years and, like PSG, previously tried to sign him, though their financial issues proved as much of a hindrance as City's unwillingness to sell.

Last year, when Silva extended his deal, it was claimed in the Spanish media that he insisted on the insertion of a release clause due to his desire to one day for Barcelona. He knew that City would not sell him to the Catalans, so he decided to take the decision out of his club's hands.

Unfortunately for the Blaugrana, their financial issues still persist, casting doubt on their ability to sign the playmaker despite him being there for the taking. His clause is said to be worth around €58 million to €60m, a fee Barcelona won't be able to muster unless they can manage to offload some prayers for big money this summer.