Lyon playmaker Lucas Paqueta is Manchester City’s “main target” to replace Bernardo Silva if the Portuguese international moves to Barcelona this summer, according to the City Transfer Room.
They claim that Silva’s switch to the Camp Nou is looking increasingly likely, with the midfielder having started on the bench for the game against West Ham at the weekend.
Paqueta, meanwhile, has been a target for the likes of Arsenal and Newcastle, but neither team are said to be close to making an offer for the Brazilian international.
Lyon are believed to be holding out for between €60m (£50.5m) and €65m (£55m), which shouldn’t be a problem for City if Barca do have the funds for Silva.
A transfer domino effect is only likely to be triggered, though, if Frenkie de Jong’s situation is resolved. Both Manchester United and Chelsea are keen on signing the Dutchman but he is currently embroiled in a contract dispute with his club.