Hansi Flick Hesitates Over Bernardo Silva

Despite Barcelona being on the verge of finalizing Bernardo Silva's transfer, coach Hansi Flick harbors reservations about the move. The primary concern, according to "Diario AS," is the abundance of players already occupying the same position.

The 31-year-old playmaker is one of the most sought-after names in the transfer market. After nine years with Manchester City, the Portuguese international is set to leave England, with all signs pointing to Spain as his next destination. There, he has two main suitors. On one hand, Barcelona has long shown interest and is now making decisive moves to sign him, knowing he would arrive as a free agent. The other alternative is Atlético Madrid, who are also aggressively pursuing his signature.

According to various sources, Silva is in advanced negotiations with both clubs, but in recent hours, he appears to have favored Barça. However, the player is eager for a resolution and wants his future decided before the World Cup begins. This means a decision cannot be postponed beyond next week, allowing him to fully concentrate on his goal of winning Portugal's first World Cup title.

While the club's management seems determined to push through the transfer, Hansi Flick has his doubts. Reports suggest the German specialist is not as enthusiastic about signing the Portuguese star. He believes there are already too many players in that position and would prefer to strengthen other areas of the pitch. Of course, Silva could also play as a winger, but the team is well-covered there too, and he isn't the type of wide player the German coach prefers. Another option is to deploy him as a "false nine" – a role he has played in the past, though not recently.

Whatever the case, it seems the Portuguese star wants to sign with Barça, but the issues stem from Hansi Flick's side. Barcelona faced a similar situation a few weeks ago when the club had agreed terms with Alessandro Bastoni. However, the Italian's profile didn't appeal to Flick, who halted the operation and forced management to seek another central defender. Furthermore, the Portuguese player's urgency to resolve his future doesn't favor Barça, as the club first needs to finalize other, more pressing transfers.