Bernardo Silva receives opportunity from Saudi Arabia, likely to turn down

Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva has received a lucrative opportunity to join the Saudi Pro League.

It is unclear if the approach has developed into a formal offer but talks have taken place with his representative Jorge Mendes and financial numbers have been discussed. There is an expectation he will turn down the possibility of moving to Saudi Arabia, although he is considering all options which include interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona.

The Saudi interest is likely to persist as they look for more big-name signings.

The Saudi Arabia ministry of sport announced in June that the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) will take control of four teams in the Saudi Pro League — Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, Al Hilal and Al Nassr — and this is set to lead to an influx in overseas talent.

Exploring a deal to sign Bernardo, fresh from playing an important role as Manchester City completed a historic treble last season, is one of the SPL’s most ambitious moves yet.

The 28-year-old’s future at City remains uncertain amid admiration from PSG and Barcelona but initial indications are that he would favour continuing to play in Europe over accepting the potential Saudi switch.

Bernardo’s Portugal teammate Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in January and Al Hilal have agreed a €55million (£47m) fee with Wolverhampton Wanderers for the signing of compatriot Ruben Neves.

Al Ittihad completed the signing of Karim Benzema earlier this month, while Al Nassr are in talks to sign Real Betis midfielder William Carvalho and Chelsea forward Hakim Ziyech.

Bernardo’s City deal runs until 2025 and he has been coveted by Barcelona in the previous two summer transfer windows.

Despite wanting a move to Barcelona last summer, Silva ultimately committed his immediate future to City.

There remains an expectation that he could depart the club this summer, with PSG making the biggest push to sign him so far.

Bernardo featured 55 times in all competitions for City last season, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists.

(Photo: Daniela Porcelli/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)