According to MARCA, de Jong’s departure has a direct impact on the signing of one of Barcelona’s biggest transfer targets. Barca are sure that they can get Bernardo Silva from Manchester City, but that will only be feasible if the Dutch star departs the team, according to the Spanish daily.
In Xavi’s midfield, Silva is seen as the perfect de Jong replacement. The financial problem is the only thing standing in the way of the Portuguese international signing, who also genuinely likes the Catalans’ plan.
Barcelona is currently unable to afford the €100 million cost demanded by Pep Guardiola‘s team for their star player. If the club receives money from de Jong’s exit, things will change.
The Netherlands international has been a top transfer target for Manchester United since the arrival of Erik ten Hag at the helm. The former Ajax manager has worked with the midfielder before and intends to make him the core of his team’s setup.
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It is reported that a deal has already been made between Manchester United and Barcelona regarding a transfer for the 25-year-old. And if de Jong and the Premier League powerhouses can agree on personal terms, a transfer may happen soon.
A move like that might open the door for Barcelona to sign Silva. The 27-year-old made 35 Premier League appearances last season, recording eight goals and four assists. Additionally, he performed nearly eight defensive plays every game on average.