Barcelona refuse to increase offer as midfield target raises wage demands amid Real Madrid, Atletico interest | OneFootball

Barcelona’s pursuit of Bernardo Silva appears to have hit an obstacle, after weeks of it looking like the transfer was effectively completed.

The former Manchester City captain was nearing an agreement with the Catalan club but performed an 11th-hour U-turn and decided to leave his future open until after the World Cup.

The Manchester City star remains one of the names admired by Barcelona, but other La Liga clubs such as Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid are also in the race.

Now, according to MARCA, Bernardo has raised his salary demands after both Madrid clubs entered the race.

However, the Blaugrana have informed him that their proposal on the table is final and that no increase in wages will be offered.

Barcelona drawing a line

Bernardo wants a bigger salary. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

The report states that Barcelona do not intend to offer a huge salary to Bernardo, particularly given the role he would likely occupy in Hansi Flick’s squad.

While the Portuguese international is highly valued for his technical quality and versatility to play in different positions with equal ease, he is unlikely to be an undisputed starter for Barca.

Thus, it makes sense for the club not to agree to a significant wage increase. Silva, for the current squad, is a luxury and not a necessity.

The Catalan club have been guilty of giving in and overpaying for players in the past, and the financial implications of the same are still being felt.

Thus, the current leadership are taking the right stance by putting their foot down and not giving in to the Portuguese international’s demands.

A test of Bernardo’s priorities

Where will Silva end up this summer? (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

This situation could now come down to what Bernardo values the most. The experienced midfielder has long flirted with a move to the Catalan club, but circumstances have stopped a deal from happening for so long despite mutual interest.

Now a free agent, there could not be a more perfect scenario for Bernardo to finally don the Blaugrana in his career.

If his priority is maximising his financial package, Barça may struggle to compete, as their priorities lie elsewhere this summer.

As fans, it is refreshing to see the club take this stance. If Bernardo wants to join them, he will have to do that on their terms and not the other way around. The next few weeks could prove pivotal in how this transfer saga plays out.