PEP GUARDIOLA could be forced to sell wantaway star Bernardo Silva this summer.
Manchester City are plotting a bid for Jack Grealish yet, despite their big-spending past, the club may have to sell before they can buy.
Already linked with Atletico Madrid this summer having failed to complete a move to Barcelona a year ago, Silva is tipped to cost around £80million.
According to The Athletic, a change of scenery is a top priority for the Portuguese star.
Silva, 26, is said to have had his heart set on the switch to Barcelona and maintained his wish to leave throughout City’s title-winning season.
Guardiola faces a number of first-team players asking for a move this summer as he looks to add a fresh feel to his squad.
But the coach does not plan on Silva being among those leaving and is described as reluctant to accept anything but a huge bid for his services.
Playing time is named as one issue the playmaker has with his manager yet only four outfield players accumulated more Premier League minutes last season.
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Typically deployed on the right wing, an injury to Kevin De Bruyne meant he was also drafted into a central creator’s role and Guardiola even moved him up front – much to the dismay of Gabriel Jesus and Sergio Aguero.
City have been linked with Aston Villa and England star Jack Grealish, a move which Silva’s sale could fund.
A swap transfer for Atletico midfielder Saul Niguez has also been mooted in the media.
Another expensive signing which may lure City into a sale is Robert Lewandowski, who is reportedly ‘open’ to a Prem move.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
