Sources: Transfer suitors named as Bernardo Silva tells Manchester City he’s leaving

Bernardo Silva’s future has been the subject of much speculation in recent times, but I’ve been told that a decision has already been made and communicated to Manchester City.

After consulting sources close to the agents industry, the clear message I’m getting is that Silva has already formally informed Man City that he’ll be leaving the club this summer when his contract expires.

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The Portugal international’s future has been uncertain for some time, though he’s now publicly hinted that he’s unlikely to sign a new deal, and my understanding is that this follows behind-the-scenes talks with City officials.

Silva has loved his time at City but is now looking for a new challenge, with a number of avenues being explored by his agents ahead of the summer.

Bernardo Silva transfer suitors revealed

There is not yet a clear frontrunner in the race for Silva’s signature, with the player likely to make that decision at a later date.

The 31-year-old has interest from MLS and the Saudi Pro League, but also from Europe, and it’s possible that he’ll decide he’s ready to continue playing at the top level for a little while longer.

Silva is eager for a competitive project, but he also has high salary demands, so this looks like an open race for his signature as things stand.

I haven’t had specific Saudi clubs named just yet, but LAFC are understood to be his main suitors from the MLS.

In Europe, there is some interest from Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, and Napoli, with these clubs all sounded out to gauge their interest.

Bernardo Silva exit a blow for Manchester City

Internally at City, there is some concern about the prospect of losing this experienced star, whom sources describe as “Pep Guardiola’s right-hand man on the pitch”.

The former Monaco star is a popular figure in the dressing room, bringing leadership and experience to the squad alongside other senior names like Rodri.

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However, it could now be that both Silva and Rodri will leave in the same summer, while there also remain ongoing questions over Guardiola’s future as manager.

This could potentially mean a lot of upheaval at the Etihad Stadium, with reports emerging about MCFC already working on two big-name midfielder signings to replace this star duo.

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