Benfica make stance clear on Bernardo Silva price tag as Manchester City exit looms | OneFootball

Portuguese giants Benfica have no interest in triggering Bernardo Silva’s release clause within his current Manchester City contract, according to reports.

The ageing Etihad Stadium star is approaching yet another summer of uncertainty, as has often been the case in recent years with the midfielder having eyed a move to warmer climates and destinations closer to home.

Having earmarked FC Barcelona as the ideal destination for himself and his young family in previous years, no such deal would emerge and come to fruition largely due to the financial constraints of the La Liga side.

Remaining the ultimate professional and refocussing on the challenges at hand over at the Etihad Stadium, Bernardo Silva has continued to be a remarkable success both individually and alongside his Manchester City teammates.

But ahead of a summer that is expected to bring significant change throughout the squad, particularly in midfield, the former AS Monaco man is once again at the heart of doubts but this time talk is centred around a potential return to Portugal for the tail-end of his career.

That is according to the information of The Times’ Paul Hirst, who confirms that Benfica have now contacted Bernardo Silva’s representatives over a potential return to the Portuguese club during the upcoming summer transfer window.

It is claimed that the 30-year-old could leave the Etihad Stadium as part of a rebuild, although his former club are unwilling to pay his €50 million release clause, despite sounding out those around him to understand whether a return would be of interest.

Manchester City are unlikely to stand in the way of any exit for Bernardo Silva this summer, providing the offer that is put in front of them meets their own valuations and satisfies those working around the player.

Pep Guardiola will no doubt find it difficult to part ways with a player that has given him so much since his arrival from French football in 2017, and a versatile athlete that continues to play a crucial role during a difficult season for the club.

Club officials will also have to find the right balance between refreshing their first-team options and changing out ageing stars, whilst also maintaining experience and knowledge of the club’s standards and culture for new faces to come in and learn from.

As such, there remains a possibility that Manchester City may want to retain Bernardo Silva’s services into another year, despite interest from abroad and the clear need to make changes in the middle of the park.