Bernardo Silva sends a clear message to Atlético: Priority is Barça.

The future of Bernardo Silva is igniting the Spanish football market, with near certainty that the talented Portuguese midfielder will head to La Liga after nearly a decade with Manchester City. The creative player has chosen not to renew his contract with the Citizens, which expires at the end of the season, making him an appealing target in the free market. Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid are emerging as the main teams interested in a signing that promises to shake up Spanish football.

Recently, Barcelona has faced financial difficulties that have delayed the conclusion of the deal, seemingly opening a window for Atlético de Madrid to take the lead in the race for the Portuguese star. Spanish sports journalism has been shaken by rumors suggesting advanced negotiations between Bernardo Silva and Atlético, with a transfer at no cost to the Spanish capital.

But here comes a surprising twist: Bernardo Silva has sent a clear and unequivocal message to Atlético de Madrid, rejecting the possibility of joining the colchoneros. According to renowned journalist Gerard Romero, the Portuguese midfielder has confessed that “my priority is Barça. And if Barcelona finalizes everything with me, as it seems is going to happen, I’m sorry, but I won’t be able to join you.” This statement leaves no room for doubt and represents a severe blow to Atlético de Madrid, who see one of their prime targets turning their back on them.

With this firm stance from Bernardo Silva, Barcelona gains a decisive advantage in its quest to strengthen the squad with one of the best midfielders at the moment, while Atlético is forced to rethink its market strategy. The battle for the Portuguese international promises to remain one of the hot topics of the transfer market, with fans eagerly awaiting the conclusion of this saga that is stirring up Spanish football.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.

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