Barcelona are leading the race to sign Manchester City's Omar Marmoush (27, Forward) for a fee between €60m–€65m, according to reports first published by CaughtOffside. The Catalan club is also understood to be nearing an agreement in principle for 31-year-old playmaker Bernardo Silva, whose contract situation at the Etihad Stadium has alerted several major European sides. While Marmoush is seeking more playing time, Silva is reportedly willing to accept a 60% salary reduction to facilitate a move to the Spotify Camp Nou, where Hansi Flick is looking to lower the average age of his attacking line.
Marmoush emerges as focus for Barcelona attack
Manchester City are currently reassessing Marmoush's market value and role within Pep Guardiola's squad. As first reported by CaughtOffside, agent-led sources suggest the Premier League champions are open to a sale in the €60m–€65m range this summer. Marmoush, who joined City from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal that reflected his rising profile in the Bundesliga, is understood to be frustrated by limited first-team opportunities. For Barcelona, the Egyptian offers a more cost-effective alternative to long-term target Julian Alvarez. With Robert Lewandowski turning 38 this year, Flick requires mobile attackers who can lead a high-intensity press—a profile Marmoush fits more naturally than the aging Polish international.
Bernardo Silva's long-standing pursuit nears conclusion
The pursuit of Bernardo Silva appears to be entering its final stages, with Football Espana reporting that an agreement in principle is roughly 80% complete. Silva is entering the final 12 months of his contract, which includes a £50m (€58m) release clause inserted during his 2023 extension. While Silva previously told OneFootball he was "delighted to extend" his time in Manchester, his desire for a fresh challenge in Spain has remained a persistent narrative. Barcelona's pursuit is complicated by La Liga's strict salary caps, but Silva's willingness to significantly reduce his earnings—potentially dropping from a reported £300,000-a-week to a figure more aligned with Barcelona's new structure—makes the deal feasible. This tactical double swoop would provide Flick with both the technical security of Silva and the explosive movement of Marmoush.
Manchester City face a decision on whether to lower their asking price for Marmoush or risk keeping a dissatisfied squad member during a summer of expected transition.