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‘Rightly so’ – Journalist aims dig at Arsenal after revealing target’s snub

Bernardo Silva has rejected the advances of Arsenal, according to a Portuguese journalist who has provided the latest on the Manchester City attacking midfielder.

Silva’s star has faded somewhat over the last couple of years, despite an originally positive City career. He only made 26 appearances in the Premier League last season, the lowest of any of his four years at the Etihad Stadium. Following the arrival of Jack Grealish, there has been further doubt about Silva’s future.

Although under contract for another four years, the 27-year-old may be sacrificed as City think about balancing the books. From his own perspective, a departure may make sense so he can rediscover regular gametime.

Even though his time with City might be nearing an end, he could retain a Premier League future. Arsenal have been linked with the Portugal international as they look for more creative solutions.

Martin Odegaard spent the second half of last season on loan at the Emirates Stadium from Real Madrid. Arsenal would like to take him back, but a deal remains difficult.

Among the alternatives they have been considering is Silva, who would be an exciting signing. It appears a transfer that is destined not to happen, though.

Portuguese journalist Felipe Dias has revealed that, although Silva wants to leave City, he “rightly” doesn’t want to join Arsenal.

Dias said, in quotes carried by the Daily Mirror: “The information we have is that Bernardo has made it pretty clear that this is the right time for him to leave (Manchester City).

“He did want to go to Barcelona. He wanted to live in Barcelona and play for Barcelona but Barcelona is going through such a big crisis that I don’t think they can afford a player like him at the moment.

“The latest we heard is that Bernardo has rejected a move to Arsenal and if that is the case I think rightly so because I don’t think that would be a step forward in his career.”

Arsenal will thus have to step up their pursuits of either Odegaard or Leicester City playmaker James Maddison. Another alternative would be long-term target, Houssem Aouar of Lyon.

Breakthrough in Arsenal exit

One attack-minded midfielder who looks likely to leave Arsenal is Joe Willock. He ended last season on loan at Newcastle, where he thrived.

The Magpies have been working on signing him on a permanent basis. However, the asking price and personal terms have both been obstacles.

But it seems the distance is shortening all the time and Willock could become a Newcastle player for good. Even so, Mikel Arteta has remained coy over Willock’s future…

READ MOREJoe Willock breakthrough for Newcastle as final transfer barrier is beaten

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