Pep Guardiola provides major Bernardo Silva transfer update before Premier League clash

As the summer transfer deadline ticks ever closer, the situation surrounding Bernardo Silva is still up in the air.

Recently nominated for the Ballon d'Or, the Portuguese international has transformed into one of the best midfielder's in Europe under Pep Guardiola's tutelage.

During his time in England, Silva has picked up four Premier League titles, one FA Cup, four Carabao Cups and two Community Shield's.

He is clearly loved around the Etihad Stadium and was serenaded with his iconic chant for around 20 minutes against AFC Bournemouth last Saturday.

However, he still does hold a desire to leave Manchester City in search of fresh challenge.

PSG are reportedly preparing a £59.1m bid for Bernardo Silva (Image: Alamy)

Despite some short links with Paris Saint-Germain earlier this week, FC Barcelona quickly emerged as frontrunners and wanted Silva to spearhead the rebuild under Xavi.

The Catalan giants are in mountains of financial debt, but have still managed to pull off the signings of Robert Lewandowski, Jules Kounde and Franck Kessie.

Reports this week seems to suggest Silva will stay at City for this season at least, with other sources claiming he is still open to signing a new contract.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Guardiola - yet again - was asked about Silva's situation and if he was set to stay at the Etihad.

"He's our player. He knows our wishes," he began.

"What is going to happen, I don't know."

Bernardo Silva in Community Shield action

Moving on to discuss the rest of the transfer window, it seems like the only business City will do is on the outgoing front, but only if the right offer is made.

"Apparently yeah. If someone moves or if there's a problem we don't expect, " Guardiola concluded.

Silva may be back in the team to face Newcastle United this weekend, but faces stern competition from Ilkay Gundogan.

The German has been excellent in the opening two games and bagged his first goal of the season against Bournemouth last weekend.

City have won two from two in the Premier League and currently sit top of the table on goal difference.

They will want to continue their good form with a trip to St James' Park on Sunday afternoon.

Last season, Joao Cancelo's wonder-goal was the standout moment in a 4-0 rout of Eddie Howe's new-look Magpies side.

Topics: Manchester City, Premier League, Bernardo Silva, Pep Guardiola

Harry Siddall

Freelance sports journalist

@harryasiddall