Manchester City remain interested in Leeds United winger Raphinha and if he joins Pep Guardiola's side this summer it could perhaps be a factor in Bernardo Silva departing the Etihad, as the Spanish boss seemingly plans a rebuild of his side ahead of the 2021/22 season.
City have regularly been linked with the Brazilian after his impressive debut campaign in the Premier League, with Brazilian news outlet UOL Esporte claiming recently that he is still in City's plans for this summer transfer window.
Despite a superb campaign which saw them cruise to the Premier League title and win another Carabao Cup, whilst also reaching the semi-final of the FA Cup and final of the Champions League, it has been widely reported that Guardiola is keen for a shake-up this summer, which will require some first-team regulars to leave.
City would certainly be forced to splash the cash if they want to land Raphinha this summer, as Transfermarkt currently values him at £27m, whilst he still has three years left on his contract at Elland Road having signed a four-year deal when joining from Stade Rennais last summer.
The 24-year-old quickly established himself as a key member of Marcelo Bielsa's side, contributing six goals and nine assists in 30 Premier League appearances last season, averaging an impressive 7.22 rating from WhoScored for his performances in the top-flight.
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Therefore, he could prove to be a superb addition to Guardiola's side and may even be an upgrade on Bernardo Silva should the Portugal international's potential departure lead to Raphinha making the switch to Man City.
The former AS Monaco man is reportedly on a list of names who could depart the Etihad this summer, with Atletico Madrid and Barcelona amongst those interested in the 26-year-old.
Silva would manage just two goals and six assists in 26 Premier League appearances last season, averaging a 7.09 rating from WhoScored, so could easily be outed by Raphinha next season if the Brazilian were to maintain his form from Leeds in Guardiola's side.
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Therefore, if City are truly interested in signing the "phenomenal" Raphinha this summer, it would perhaps not be a surprise to see Bernardo Silva depart in order to fund a move.
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