Manchester City could lose one of their top midfielders with reports revealing that Jose Mourinho’s plan for Bernardo Silva and wants SL Benfica to make a bold move for the 31-year-old next year.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Portuguese manager has identified Silva as a key target as he looks to strengthen the team’s creative options in the final third.
Mourinho eyes Silva as the missing piece
Jose Mourinho, who took charge of Benfica earlier this year, is reportedly eager to inject more creativity and versatility into his attacking setup.
The former Chelsea and Manchester United boss has turned his attention to Bernardo Silva, a player he believes could transform the club’s offensive play.
The Lisbon-born midfielder is entering the final 12 months of his contract at Manchester City, which could open the door for a potential return to his boyhood club.
Since leaving AS Monaco for Manchester City in 2017 for a fee of around £43 million, Silva has become one of the Premier League’s most consistent and technically gifted playmakers.
Under Pep Guardiola, the Portuguese international has evolved into an all-round creative force — capable of dictating play, pressing high, and scoring decisive goals.
Silva’s journey at the Etihad, however, was not without its challenges. He had to earn Guardiola’s trust during his early years in Manchester, but his relentless work ethic and adaptability soon made him indispensable.
Now a five-time Premier League champion and a key member of City’s treble-winning side, Silva has accumulated more than 400 appearances for the club, scoring 73 goals and providing 75 assists.
Despite his success in England, his future remains uncertain. The midfielder’s current deal is set to expire in 2026, but City insiders suggest he could be allowed to leave next summer if a suitable offer arrives.
Benfica, according to reports, are closely monitoring the situation — encouraged by Mourinho’s plan for Bernardo Silva at the club.
Benfica’s ambition and the Silva factor
For Benfica, signing Bernardo Silva would not just be a major sporting coup but also a symbolic one. The Portuguese international came through the club’s academy before leaving for AS Monaco in 2014, having made only three senior appearances for the Eagles. A return would represent a full-circle moment for both player and club.
Joao Noronha Lopes, a strong candidate in the upcoming Benfica presidential elections, has already declared his intention to push for Silva’s signing should he assume office.
His ambition aligns with Mourinho’s plan to reunite Benfica with one of their most gifted exports.
The club has struggled to replace the creativity of Ángel Di María, who left this summer to rejoin Rosario Central in Argentina.
That departure has left a significant void in the team’s attacking structure — one Mourinho hopes Silva can fill. The manager reportedly views Silva’s tactical intelligence and versatility as crucial to competing at the highest level in both domestic and European competitions.
Benfica’s board is said to be supportive of the idea, aware of the potential commercial and emotional impact of bringing back one of Portugal’s most celebrated footballers.
At 31, Silva still has several prime years ahead of him. His experience at the top level — winning multiple titles under Guardiola and consistently performing in the UEFA Champions League — could prove invaluable for a Benfica side aiming to reassert its dominance in Portugal and make deeper runs in Europe.
- Man City superstar nearly quit playing football, gives ’emotional’ reason
- Top Manchester City midfielder planning to join West Ham or Aston Villa – Report
Financially, the deal could be feasible with the midfielder nearing the end of his contract. The club would still need to negotiate wages reflective of Silva’s stature, but Mourinho’s influence and the emotional appeal of returning home could play a significant role in convincing the player.
Also, Silva’s affection for Benfica has never been a secret. In past interviews, he has often spoken fondly of his time at the club’s academy and his desire to play again for his hometown team before retirement.
That dream might now align perfectly with Mourinho’s plans to rebuild Benfica’s identity around Portuguese talent and experienced leadership.
