Real Madrid Confidencial Calafat points to England, a signing Xabi wants, free in 2026 and it's not Konaté
Bernardo Silva's contract ends in 2026 and he wants to join Real Madrid as a free agent. Mendes has already offered him
Real Madrid is once again looking at the Premier League. Juni Calafat, the club's chief scout, has set his sights on England. The name being mentioned isn't new, but it is surprising: Bernardo Silva.
The Portuguese footballer’s contract with Manchester City expires in June 2026. According to several sources, his plan is to see out his contract and leave as a free agent. At 31 years old, he would arrive with no transfer fee (sin coste de traspaso) and with a wealth of experience.
Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid's new coach, would welcome his arrival. He wants to strengthen the midfield with a creative, experienced profile who can perform from the very first minute.
Jorge Mendes has already offered him
Agent Jorge Mendes, Bernardo's representative, has already made a move. He has offered the Portuguese footballer to the club with an eye on the future.
However, Madrid's technical department isn't fully convinced. In Valdebebas, they've been betting for years on young players with room for improvement and international projection. Bernardo, despite his quality, is already over 30 years old.
The club doesn't deny his talent. They acknowledge it. But they recall that signing him would be an exception to the rule that has governed the club's moves since 2018.
Xabi wants him. For it to happen, a very specific context would have to occur. Of course, arriving with no transfer fee (sin coste de traspaso) in 2026 would be the only possible scenario.
Long summer, and limited squad spots
Although Bernardo isn't a priority, the sporting management isn't closing any doors. Real Madrid know that many things can happen until August 31.
Any arrival depends first on a departure. The problem lies in the squad spots. The midfield is crowded and there's no room unless someone leaves.
Moreover, Xabi insists on strengthening that area of the field. He already requested Zubimendi, but Florentino didn't approve the deal and the player ended up at Arsenal for €66 million.
In that context, Bernardo Silva emerges as a different alternative. A world-class footballer, proven and with a winning DNA. But only for free.
The ball is in Calafat and Florentino's court. Although he's not a priority today, Bernardo's name is already on the agenda. That's never a coincidence.
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