PSG Preparing A Transfer Swoop For Manchester City Star: Can Guardiola Afford To Lose Him? | OneFootball

Reports from Manchester Evening News suggest that PSG are once again expressing interest in Bernardo Silva, raising doubts about his future at Manchester City. Portuguese agent Jorge Mendes is believed to be actively engaging in negotiations for a potential transfer that would result in the midfielder departing from the Etihad during the upcoming summer window.

Silva’s Impressive Campaign For The Sky Blues This Season

The 28-year-old has undergone a solid campaign at Man City, as he produced some influential displays in the final third, helping the Sky Blues lift the FA Cup and the Premier League title for the fifth time. He has managed to score 7 goals and create 6 assists over 63 appearances this season across all competitions.

The presence of the Portuguese international has been highly influential for the Manchester-based club throughout the season, and it would be an understatement to describe his performances in the midfield as anything other than exceptional. He has given a good account of himself after averaging 0.7 shots, 0.9 key passes, 1.3 tackles, 0.5 interceptions and 0.8 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He has been excellent in passing the ball to his teammates after completing 89.1 % of his attempted passes in English top-flight football (stats via whoscored).

West Ham United’s Czech defender Vladimir Coufal (L) reacts after colliding with Manchester City’s Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and West Ham at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on May 3, 2023. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

Can Guardiola Afford To Sanction His Exit?

Considering Bernardo Silva’s crucial role in Manchester City‘s success this season, helping them secure both the FA Cup and the Premier League title, it raises the question of whether Guardiola can afford to approve his departure.

Silva displays a commanding presence in the midfield, particularly in the central areas. His adeptness at winning possession from opponents and his diligent defensive work rate makes him a valuable asset. Silva’s agility and pace enable him to easily navigate past defenders, posing a constant threat in the attacking third. Moreover, his exceptional passing abilities allow him to create scoring opportunities with precision and effectiveness.

The departure of a player of Bernardo Silva’s calibre, especially during his prime, would create a notable void in Pep Guardiola‘s attacking lineup. Finding a suitable replacement for Silva without incurring substantial expenses would prove challenging. However, as we are witnessing with Joao Cancelo, if a player is not committed to the club, Guardiola does not insist on retaining their services. Consequently, an exit appears imminent unless Silva expresses a desire to remain.