Barcelona won’t sign key target until after 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Barcelona are working hard to add to their list of signings, after confirming the arrival of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United last week. It’s no secret that a move for Julian Alvarez is currently at the top of their priorities, but they have also been working on the addition of a new midfielder – that being Bernardo Silva.

The expected departure of Marc Casado will generate an opening in Hansi Flick’s midfield options, and Barcelona have identified Silva as the perfect man to fill it. He would arrive for free due to his Manchester City contract expiring at the end of the month, and already, a lot of work has been done behind the scenes to ensure that he ends up at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Atletico Madrid are also in for Silva, with two clubs currently the clear favourites to sign him. Both had hoped to secure an agreement imminently, but according to Fabrizio Romano, the Portugal international has decided to delay a decision on his future until after his involvement at the 2026 World Cup comes to an end.

Silva will have a key role to play for Portugal at the tournament, which gets underway next week. In order to ensure there are no unnecessary distractions, he has informed agent Jorge Mendes that no definitive decision will be made, thus ensuring that Barcelona and Atleti will be left on tenterhooks for several weeks.

Silva signing is a no-brainer for Barcelona

Image via Naomi Baker/Getty Images

Barcelona have an excellent squad, but it is apparent that they are missing experience. Silva would bring that in spades, while he would also bring something different to the talented midfield quartet of Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Gavi and Marc Bernal – and he can operate as a backup to Lamine Yamal on the right wing, which would be necessary if Roony Bardghji ends up leaving.

For now, it remains to be seen whether Barcelona do end up signing Silva, with the matter set to drag on for a little while longer.