Transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano has highlighted the “realistic chances” of Bernardo Silva departing Manchester City in the summer of 2026.
As conversation about Bernardo Silva’s future heats up, recent reports indicate that his tenure at the Etihad Stadium could be nearing an end as his current contract approaches expiration.
Since joining Manchester City from AS Monaco in 2017, the Portugal international has been pivotal to Pep Guardiola’s triumphs, amassing over 400 appearances and winning every significant trophy, including the UEFA Champions League.
With his technical skills, tactical awareness, and adaptability, Silva has proven to be invaluable to the team; however, his longstanding desire for a new challenge has always lingered.
In recent years, Silva has been linked with numerous potential moves. Barcelona has pursued him multiple times, while Paris Saint-Germain has shown interest, alongside offers from Saudi Arabian clubs that reportedly exceed £500,000 per week.
Romano reported that Bernardo Silva has “realistic chances” of leaving Manchester City on a free transfer in 2026, noting that there are currently “no advanced or active negotiations” to extend his contract.
“It’s a significant possibility,” Romano commented regarding the potential departure of the Portugal international at the end of this season. “We must respect both Bernardo and Manchester City, as nothing has been finalized or communicated yet.”
Romano added, “In the last few years, there have been opportunities to move to Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona, as they have consistently shown interest. Additionally, Bernardo has received substantial offers from Saudi clubs.”
“I’m confident he will have many options if he opts to leave Manchester City, making a free transfer a tangible possibility. Currently, there are no active discussions to extend his contract, so it’s likely we could see him depart for free.”
If Silva chooses to move on in 2026, it would signal the end of a remarkable chapter for both the player and the club, coinciding with a gradual transition under Pep Guardiola, especially with key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Ederson having recently departed.
Meanwhile, City’s recruitment team has been busy strategizing for the future, focusing on emerging talents like Claudio Echeverri and Rayan Cherki, along with more immediate prospects such as Tijjani Reijnders and Gianluigi Donnarumma.
There has also been considerable speculation about a potential return to Benfica, a club Silva deeply connects with. The midfielder has shared his desire for a future reunion with the Lisbon side, and Benfica presidential candidates have openly pursued him as a marquee signing.
At present, Silva remains concentrated on guiding City through another title race and advancing in the UEFA Champions League. However, with no contract negotiations underway, the possibility of an emotional exit next year increasingly looms.