Barcelona ‘give up on January swoop for Manchester City’s star

Barcelona have reportedly given up on attempting to sign Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva in the January transfer window.

A move to Camp Nou was heavily rumoured in the summer but the Portugal international chose to stay at the Etihad.

Mundo Deportivo reports that the Catalans’ interest will not be renewed in the mid-season window as club chiefs accept a deal will be “difficult”.

Pep Guardiola is under no pressure to sell the 28-year-old as he is under contract until 2025, and is a key player for the reigning Premier League champions.

The midfielder has scored two goals and contributed with five assists so far this season, in 14 Premier League matches.

Although a January deal is unlikely, Xavi and Barcelona chiefs will likely try again to prise the player away next summer.