admin Barcelona have reportedly offered Manchester City a very attractive swap deal this summer, which is sure to piss off neighbors Manchester United if it goes through.
The reigning La Liga champions are keen to sign City playmaker Bernardo Silva, and Camp Nou manager Xavi is known to be a huge admirer of the Portuguese national team’s skill.
However, Pep Guardiola is not willing to sacrifice a key player in the club’s treble-winning season, despite rumors that the player himself is interested in a move.
City currently value Silva at £70m and are likely to consider an offer of that size, but there could be twists and turns in the form of Barcelona’s latest offer.
The financially-strapped Catalan giants are ready to offer United’s long-term target Frenkie de Jong a direct exchange, according to the Daily Mirror.
The Dutch player was a prime target for new Red Devils manager Eric ten Haag last summer, and that interest continues in the current slot.
However, after the loss of veteran star Ilkay Gundogan to Barca this summer, Guardiola is still looking to add another central midfielder, with reports suggesting a possible swap between Silva and De Jong.
It is De Jong is at his peak right now and a move would be a huge coup, but losing Silva would also be devastating.
Silva expresses need for fresh challenge
The 28-year-old has been one of the Premier League’s outstanding performers ever since coming to the country in 2017 when he joined from Monaco for an initial £43.5m.
However, he has expressed his desire to take on a new challenge after six years in England and Barca certainly fits the bill.
Indeed, in the short and long-term a swap deal could end up suiting both parties, assuming that Guardiola gives the go-ahead.
City begin the defence of their Premier League title against Vincent Kompany’s Burnley on Friday August 11.
