Joao Felix is certain that he has “convinced” playmaker Bernardo Silva of Manchester City, who is a colleague from Portugal, to accompany him to Barcelona this summer.
Since he said in January of last year that he wanted to explore a “new project” away from the Etihad Stadium, Bernardo has been strongly linked to a move to Camp Nou.
After moving from Monaco to the Citizens in 2017, the 29-year-old has established himself as a key member of Pep Guardiola’s first team, playing a range of positions in midfield and attack.
Currently in his sixth season as a member of the Man City team, Bernardo has made 345 appearances in all competitions, tallying 64 goals and dishing out 63 assists.
The adaptable playmaker has won 15 trophies during his tenure at City and might win three more at the end of the current campaign as Guardiola’s team looks to win another treble. He has contributed nine goals and five assists in 39 games this season.
Felix is eager to play with Bernardo at Barcelona.
The sports director of Barcelona, Deco, was urged to sign Bernardo by Felix last week, calling his Portuguese colleague a “very good” player and a “even better person.”
Since then, Felix has disclosed that he had extensive conversations with Bernardo regarding the way of life in Catalonia and feels that he has done enough to “persuade” the playmaker to go to Camp Nou this summer.
In an interview on Catalunya Radio, Felix was asked if he had convinced Bernardo to sign with Barca. He responded, “I think so, I think so.” But now, I don’t believe it is dependent on him.”
“If Bernardo Silva comes, I’m going to ask for a commission,” Felix laughed. “Everything I have said is true and if he comes they will be delighted with him.”
“He is very careful with everything and he asked me about places to live, places to eat, about security,” the 24-year-old continued. I mentioned tax concerns since that was the first thing that sprang to me when he asked me a few general questions.”
Felix restates his goal to finish his permanent move to Barcelona
Felix, who has been at Barcelona on loan from Atletico Madrid for the current campaign, has also stated his wish to join the team permanently.
“In Barcelona, I’m content. I adore the club, the city, and the people. The forward declared, “My stance is clear,” to Catalunya Radio.
“The dressing room is also incredible, I hope to stay at the club beyond this season”.
So far this season, Felix has made 35 appearances for the Catalan giants in all competitions, including 23 starts. He has scored nine goals and provided six assists, with two of his goals coming in different games against parent club Atletico.