Transfer Centre

Xavi still "hopeful" Barcelona could sign Bernardo Silva

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 27 August 2022

Barcelona boss Xavi says that he is still "hopeful" that the Catalan outfit could sign Manchester City attacker Bernardo Silva this summer.

Barcelona boss Xavi has said that he is still "hopeful" the Catalan outfit can sign Manchester City attacker Bernardo Silva before the end of the transfer window.

Bernardo has been strongly linked with a move to Camp Nou in recent weeks, and the Portugal international is said to be keen to join the La Liga club before the deadline.

On Friday, Man City boss Pep Guardiola insisted that the 28-year-old would be remaining at the club this summer.

"He's staying here. Absolutely. We don't have any phone call from any club regarding Bernardo Silva, so he will stay. I am telling you; he will stay," the Spaniard told reporters during his press conference.

However, when asked about the Portuguese on Saturday, Xavi said that he was still "hopeful" that a deal could take place.

"I am hopeful, of course. But we know it is going to be difficult because there are only a few days left and with the current situation I see it as really difficult," Xavi told reporters.

Barcelona boss Xavi on August 13, 2022 © Reuters

Xavi also said that he was "confident" that Jules Kounde would be registered in time for the clash with Real Valladolid, while he discussed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's future amid the ongoing transfer speculation.

Manchester United and Chelsea are both said to be keen to sign the 33-year-old before the end of the window, with Robert Lewandowski now seen as the number one forward at Camp Nou.

"I don't rule out any situation. I take everything into account and we'll see. Many things can happen in the remainder of the market, but I want it to end," Xavi added.

There has also been speculation surrounding Pablo Torre, with the youngster potentially heading out on loan before the end of the window.

The 19-year-old made the move to the Catalan side from Racing de Santander earlier this summer, and he is yet to make his official debut for the club.

Barcelona coach Xavi during the match on March 10, 2022 © Reuters

"I spoke with him. I think that if he stays he will do well. This is Barca, it's difficult to get minutes, but he is working well," said the manager. "The option of Racing was discussed but here he can learn more. There are many games and it is good that he continues."

Martin Braithwaite has also been strongly linked with a move away from Camp Nou, and Xavi has reiterated that the Denmark international is not part of his plans.

"Braithwaite knows he has to go, I think I was clear with him. Braithwaite has a contract with Barcelona, but he knows since May 17 that I don't count on him," he added.

Xavi was then asked about Marcos Alonso amid suggestions that a deal for the Chelsea defender had broken down, with Celta Vigo's Javi Galan now thought to be their leading target.

"You don't listen to me. I said I would not rule out anything in the transfer market," said the head coach.

Barcelona will be looking to make it back-to-back wins in Spain's top flight when they welcome Real Valladolid to Camp Nou on Sunday night.