The brass at La Liga champions Barcelona were more than confident that they had a deal for Bernardo Silva in place, prior to the Portuguese committing to terms with arch rivals Real Madrid.
Midfielder Bernardo is of course expected to be unveiled as the latest addition to the first-team setup at the Bernabéu any day now.
As much comes after Florentino Pérez and co. swooped decisively this week, to tie up a quick-fire agreement with the departing Manchester City man and his entourage.
🚨 Bernardo Silva to Real Madrid, HERE WE GO! Agreement in place and contract approved.
Two year deal plus one year option, fast deal by Madrid started 36h ago and closed immediately.
Mourinho wanted Bernardo, he says yes and advanced talks revealed today are 100% confirmed. pic.twitter.com/2qYSHutAfX
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 11, 2026
Prior to this agreement, though, it was another of Spanish football’s leading clubs who were considered the outright favourites to land Bernardo.
After identifying the 31-year-old as a market opportunity to good to overlook, Barcelona were widely expected to bring Bernardo to the Camp Nou with a view to next season.
So much so that, according to El Chiringuito TV, the Blaugrana ‘thought they had Bernardo Silva’ signed and sealed.
Conor Laird – GSFN