Bernardo Silva (32, Manchester City) is increasingly likely to move to Atlético Madrid. The player himself already appears to have decided on a new challenge.
Spanish outlet Marca reported on the 23rd (Korean time) that "Bernardo Silva wants to move to Atlético, and the club is also working to finalize the deal before the World Cup."
Atlético has chosen Bernardo Silva as the key resource to fill the vacancy left by Antoine Griezmann leaving the team this summer. The player is also reportedly looking positively at Atlético as his next destination after wrapping up his nine-year spell at Manchester City.
Until now, in Spain there had been talk of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) midfielder Lee Kang-in being mentioned as a replacement for Griezmann. In fact, several local media outlets have reported Atlético's possible interest.
However, judging by the current mood, Bernardo Silva's side appears much closer to a concrete and realistic stage.
The remaining key variable is salary negotiation. Atlético wants to finish the contract as quickly as possible, but final agreement has not yet been reached with the player on detailed pay conditions.
Nevertheless, local reports view a successful negotiation as likely. The outlet predicted, "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 been strengthening talks with Bernardo Silva's agent Jorge Mendes and is said to be focusing on adjusting terms.
Of course, realistic obstacles also exist. Bernardo Silva is reported to have received about 18 million euros a year (about 31.7 billion won) at Manchester City. Given Atlético's current financial situation, offering the same level of salary is not easy.
However, the club has gained some room. Griezmann's departure reduced the aggregates of salary burden. Griezmann was reported to have received about 8 million euros a year (about 14.1 billion won).
Additionally, Bernardo Silva would join as a free agent (FA). Since no transfer fee will occur, the club can calculate a higher proportion of signing bonuses and salary.
Atlético's current highest-paid player is Jan Oblak, who is reported to earn about 10 million euros a year (about 17.6 billion won).
Marca analyzed, "If Atlético raises the offer one more time to match Bernardo Silva with the club's top-tier treatment, the contract could be finalized."
Next week is expected to be the biggest turning point. Once La Liga and the Premier League seasons both end and Bernardo Silva begins formal farewell procedures with Manchester City, negotiations are likely to accelerate.
The Portugal national team schedule is also a variable.
Bernardo Silva will join the national team ahead of the Chile match on June 6 and the Nigeria match on June 10 next month. After that, Portugal plans to base itself in Miami, Florida, and begin preparations for the CONCACAF World Cup.
Atlético wants to finalize the contract before the national team convenes.
The contract is expected to be a two-year base with a one-year option. If the deal is completed, Silva is likely to be one of the blockbuster signings of this summer's transfer market.
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