Deco explains why Barcelona did not sign midfielder Bernardo Silva
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 6:00 PM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026

Barcelona sporting director Deco confirmed that Bernardo Silva intended to join the club this summer following his departure from Manchester City. Despite the interest from the 32-year-old Portuguese midfielder, Barcelona declined to pursue a deal due to financial constraints and concerns regarding his potential playing time. Silva ultimately signed with Real Madrid as a free agent, receiving a reported salary of €20 million per year alongside significant bonuses. Barcelona moved to reinforce their midfield with the signing of Rodri instead. Deco noted that while the club initially viewed a deal for Rodri as impossible, they successfully negotiated his transfer from Manchester City after confirming his availability. The club committed a €76.5 million transfer fee and a reported €30 million annual salary to secure the midfielder.
- •Bernardo Silva expressed a preference to join Barcelona before signing with Real Madrid.
- •Barcelona cited financial parameters and playing time concerns for rejecting the Silva deal.
- •Rodri joined Barcelona following his departure from Manchester City.
- •The acquisition of Rodri involved a €76.5 million transfer fee and a €30 million annual salary.
- 6:00 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona sporting director says Bernardo Silva wanted to play for Hansi Flick’s side
"“It came down to financial terms and playing time.”
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