Barcelona has moved to the front of the queue to sign Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva as a free agent in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to reports.
The Portuguese international has expressed his desire to join the Catalan club, turning down interest from Atletico Madrid and other suitors.
The transfer had been pending evaluation from new head coach Hansi Flick, who initially had reservations about squad depth in creative midfield positions.
Reports from RAC 1, via Mundo Deportivo, indicate that Flick has now given his definitive approval, removing a major internal obstacle.
Contract Expiry and Wage Adjustment
Silva's contract at the Etihad Stadium expires on June 30, ending a nine-season tenure with Manchester City.
This allows Barcelona to bypass a transfer fee, while the player is reportedly prepared to accept a significant wage reduction to facilitate the move.
Silva was previously a priority target for former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez, but Manchester City blocked any sale at that time.
The deal now depends on financial restructuring, as Barcelona must orchestrate at least one player departure to create registration and wage cap space.
Midfielder Marc Casado and forward Roony Bardghji are the primary candidates to leave before new arrivals can be registered.
Agent Jorge Mendes represents both Casado and Silva, with Casado attracting formal interest from Ligue 1 club AS Monaco.
Silva offers tactical flexibility for Flick's system, capable of operating as a double pivot, an attacking midfielder, or a right winger.
He also brings exceptional durability, having missed only 26 competitive matches for club and country over the past 11 seasons.
