Benfica Plans January Bid for Manchester City Midfielder Bernardo Silva

Joao Noronha Lopes, a candidate for the presidency of Benfica, has disclosed plans to bring Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva back to the Portuguese club, potentially as early as January 2025. Lopes confirmed that a contract is ready for Silva, who is a longtime fan of Benfica despite his family's Sporting CP ties, and emphasized Silva's embodiment of Benfica's identity and winning culture. Silva, 31, has been a key player for Manchester City since 2017, with 410 appearances, 72 goals, and 73 assists, but his contract expires in June 2026, allowing him to negotiate with other clubs starting January. Lopes aims to capitalize on this contract situation to secure Silva's transfer, which would be one of Benfica's most significant moves. Silva's return would mark a homecoming to the club where he spent part of his youth career before moving to Monaco and then Manchester City. This potential transfer reflects Benfica's ambition to strengthen their squad with a proven international star as they prepare for upcoming presidential elections.