Man City offered stunning swap deal by Barcelona that will leave Man Utd reeling

Barcelona have reportedly offered Manchester City a very enticing swap deal this summer that is sure to rile neighbours Manchester United if it happens.
The reigning LaLiga champions are desperate to get City playmaker Bernardo Silva on board, with Nou Camp chief Xavi well known to be a huge admirer of the Portugal international’s ability.
However, Pep Guardiola is unwilling to sacrifice one of the main performers in the club’s treble-winning campaign, even if the player himself is rumoured to be interested in the transfer.
City currently value Silva at £70million and are likely to consider any offer around that amount, but there could be a twist coming in the shape of Barcelona’s latest offer.
According to the Daily Mirror, the cash-strapped Catalan giants are willing to offer long-term United target Frenkie de Jong in a straight swap.
The Dutchman was a major target for new Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag last summer, while that interest has been retained during the current window.
But now it’s reported that a potential swap involving Silva and De Jong could happen, with Guardiola still looking to add another central midfield player to his ranks after losing veteran star Ilkay Gundogan to Barca this summer.
De Jong is currently at the peak of his powers and would be considered a tremendous coup if a transfer does come off, but the loss of Silva would also be a devastating blow.
Silva expresses need for fresh challenge
The 28-year-old has been one of the Premier League’s outstanding performers ever since coming to the country in 2017 when he joined from Monaco for an initial £43.5m.
However, he has expressed his desire to take on a new challenge after six years in England and Barca certainly fits the bill.
Indeed, in the short and long-term a swap deal could end up suiting both parties, assuming that Guardiola gives the go-ahead.
City begin the defence of their Premier League title against Vincent Kompany’s Burnley on Friday August 11.
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