Bernardo Silva Manchester City future in doubt as agent offers him to Serie A clubs

Bernardo Silva’s time at Manchester City could be entering its final chapter. The Portuguese playmaker, now 31, is in the last year of his contract and has yet to agree an extension, leaving the door open to a possible departure in 2026.

Italian outlet Calciomercato report that Silva’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has been sounding out opportunities across Europe, with Juventus and AC Milan both contacted in recent weeks. Mendes is said to have spoken with Juventus’ general manager Damien Comolli, while Milan have tested the waters with preliminary enquiries, though no formal negotiations have begun.

The stumbling block for both Italian clubs would be Silva’s salary. The former Benfica man currently earns around €10m net per year at City, a figure unlikely to be matched in Serie A. A move would therefore require Silva to accept a substantial pay cut — something he may be willing to do if it means securing a final big move.

Juventus and Milan see Silva as a marquee signing who could add world-class creativity, but both are constrained by financial realities. Neither side is in a position to match his current wages, with Juve in particular undergoing a strict cost-cutting regime. Milan, meanwhile, are intrigued but cautious, and at this stage have not progressed beyond initial contact.

Silva’s boyhood club Benfica have also been linked with a romantic reunion, though whether they can fund such a move remains doubtful.

FootballPlace analyst John William believes Mendes’ manoeuvring shows that City may already be bracing for Silva’s exit:

“Bernardo Silva has been central to Guardiola’s system for years, but City are pragmatic when it comes to ageing players on big contracts. Mendes’ activity in Italy suggests an exit plan is in motion. Whether it’s Juventus, Milan, or even Benfica, it looks increasingly likely Silva will move on next summer.”

For now, Silva remains an integral part of City’s midfield, with Guardiola relying on his creativity and versatility across competitions. However, as contract talks stall, speculation will only intensify over his next move.

The question is whether Silva will choose a financially secure extension in England, or opt for a romantic yet less lucrative adventure abroad. Either way, the coming months will be decisive for one of City’s most important players of the Guardiola era.

👉 Should Manchester City push to keep Bernardo Silva beyond 2026, or is it the right time for both sides to part ways?