Xavi, the head coach of Barcelona, is still optimistic that a deal can be reached to bring midfielder Bernardo Silva from Manchester City to Camp Nou.
Despite interest from Barcelona and PSG, City manager Pep Guardiola was adamant on Friday that the Portuguese midfielder won't be traded this summer.
Before the transfer window closes, Xavi is still optimistic that the club and the 28-year-old can reach a deal to bring him to Barcelona.
“I’m hopeful, of course,” said the Spaniard. “But we know it’s going to be difficult because there are only a few days left and with the current situation I see it as really difficult.”
Any move for the Portuguese international is time sensitive with the window set to shut on September 1. Guardiola reiterated yesterday that Silva would remain at the Etihad Stadium as City have not received an offer for the midfielder in due time.
“He will stay here. Absolutely,” said the Cityzens boss. “We don’t have any phone call from any club regarding Bernardo Silva, so he is staying.”
Meanwhile, Xavi is optimistic about being able to finally register summer signing Jules Kounde. The former Sevilla defender has been ineligble for Barcelona’s opening two La Liga games this season due to financial restraints.
“It has been and it’s still being difficult to register [players],” added the Barca boss. “We are optimistic about registering Kounde tomorrow… It’s all a matter of numbers, of balancing financial fair play.”