Bernardo Silva set for Portuguese homecoming?! Man City star locked in talks with Benfica over completing dream transfer this summer

As per reports from A Bola, conversations are already underway at a senior level between Benfica and the player's entourage, sparking real hope that a deal could be reached in the near future. While a move back to Lisbon would see Silva take a significant pay cut compared to his current wages at the Etihad, financial considerations are not believed to be a stumbling block. For the Portuguese international, this move would represent an emotional decision rather than a monetary one.

Bernardo is a Benfica youth product, but his time there was brief, with just a few appearances before leaving the club. A return now would be about more than football - it would be about completing something he believes was left incomplete. Although FC Barcelona have long been linked with Silva, the Spanish giants remain hesitant to make a firm offer. With financial constraints still affecting their transfer operations, a formal move for the City midfielder is far from guaranteed.

This season has been far from straightforward for Bernardo, even though he has managed to remain injury-free - a rare feat in Pep Guardiola’s squad this campaign. In fact, only Josko Gvardiol has made more appearances than him, with Silva featuring in 39 matches across all competitions, but City's lack of form and the potential of them missing out on Champions League qualification could mean this is an ideal time to move on.

With manager Guardiola expected to refresh his midfield options ahead of next season, the idea of Bernardo leaving the club is gaining momentum. They face Crystal Palace on Saturday.