Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva is prioritising a move to Atletico Madrid this summer, according to reports in Spain. Silva is attracting interest from several clubs across Europe after deciding to leave City when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Interest from Europe's elite
Barcelona, Juventus and AC Milan have already registered their interest but according to Marca, Atletico’s offer is ‘the most appealing’ to Silva. The report claims that there is ‘moderate optimism’ within Atletico’s hierarchy that an agreement can be reached with the Portugal international.
Silva's legacy at City
Silva, who has won 20 major trophies at City including six Premier League titles, one Champions League and three FA Cups, will play his final game for Pep Guardiola’s side on Sunday as they host Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium. Atletico are in the market to reinforce their attacking options with Antoine Griezmann due to join MLS side Orlando City on a free transfer this summer.
Why Silva is leaving
Explaining his decision to leave City, Silva said in an interview with Canal 11 this week: ‘It was a decision I made two years ago, that I would see out my contract and then we would go our separate ways. When I made the decision, I knew I wouldn’t change my mind.
‘When I arrived, I never imagined I’d stay for nine years, that’s a long time at a club. The decision to leave was a natural one. It’s my last chance to take on another challenge in my life, to do something different.
‘Since I left, my family has been pulling me back. They know that nine years is a long time and, after everything I’ve achieved here, it made sense to do something different.’
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