Manchester City pursue Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong in potential swap deal with Bernardo Silva
- Rob Fleming
- 15 July 2023
Manchester City are eyeing Frenkie de Jong and contemplating a move that would utilize Barcelona's interest in Bernardo Silva by proposing a swap deal.
Manchester City are reportedly eyeing Frenkie de Jong and considering a swap deal that takes advantage of Barcelona's interest in Bernardo Silva, according to FootballTransfers.
The Citizens value Silva, 28, at around £70 million.
Barcelona aim to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming La Liga season, with De Jong accounting for a significant portion of the club's wages. They have openly identified Silva as a key target for revitalizing the team.
Manchester City hope to leverage Barcelona's interest in Silva to secure De Jong and bolster their midfield options. This comes after their failed pursuit of Declan Rice from West Ham, as the English international has now moved to Arsenal.
However, several factors need consideration, including finances and player preferences. Barcelona must also balance their books and comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.
Since joining Manchester City from AS Monaco in 2017, Silva has been a vital cog in the midfield machinery, achieving immense success. Although clubs in Saudi Arabia have shown interest, no bids have been made yet.
De Jong, who joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2019, was the subject of a failed approach by Manchester United last summer.
Despite Barcelona accepting a bid for him, De Jong refused to make the move, ultimately winning the La Liga title the following year under coach Xavi Hernandez.
