Bernardo Silva (32, Manchester City) is increasingly likely to leave Manchester City. His destination is Atlético Madrid. It already appears the player himself has made up his mind.
Spanish outlet "Marca" reported on the 23rd (KST) that "Bernardo Silva wants to move to Atlético, and both sides are pushing to finalize the contract before the World Cup."
Atlético has singled out Bernardo Silva as the optimal option to fill the void left by Antoine Griezmann. The player is also said to have decided to end his nine-year spell at Manchester City and judged Atlético the most ideal destination.
The biggest variable right now is wages.
Atlético wants to finish the deal as quickly as possible, but it has not yet reached a final agreement with the player's side on salary terms.
The outlet predicted that "because both sides are strongly willing to sign the contract, it is highly likely they will eventually find common ground."
In fact, Atlético sporting director Mateu Alemany has recently stepped up contact with Jorge Mendes and is reportedly conducting negotiations quickly.
However, the practical problem is clear. Bernardo Silva was reportedly receiving about 18 million euros a year (about 31.7 billion won) at Manchester City. It is not easy for Atlético to match that level of wages.
Still, there are hopeful signs within the club.
That is because Griezmann's departure freed up room in the wage structure. Griezmann was reportedly receiving about 8 million euros a year (about 14.1 billion won) in salary.
Also, Bernardo Silva is expected to join as a free agent. Because there will be no transfer fee, Atlético can allocate more money to signing bonuses and wages.
The team's highest earner currently is Jan Oblak. He is said to receive about 10 million euros a year (about 17.6 billion won).
The outlet analyzed that "if Atlético pushes up the terms one more time and treats Bernardo Silva at the club's highest level, the deal could be completed."
Next week is expected to be a pivotal moment. Once La Liga and the Premier League seasons end and Bernardo Silva begins official farewell procedures with Manchester City, negotiation speed is likely to increase.
Portugal's national team schedule is also a variable. Bernardo Silva is expected to join the national team ahead of the Chile match on June 6 and the Nigeria match on June 10. Portugal will then base itself in Miami, United States, to begin CONCACAF World Cup preparations.
Atlético wants to complete the contract before he joins the national team.
The contract is likely to be a two-year deal with a one-year option. If completed, Bernardo Silva is expected to be one of the biggest stories of this summer's transfer window.
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