Even the most loyal West Ham fans have to admit: Bernardo Silva has been some player for Manchester City over the years.
The Portuguese playmaker has been central to City’s dominance under Pep Guardiola, blending nimble footwork, an eye for goal, and relentless creativity.
Across more than 400 appearances, Silva has racked up 74 goals, six Premier League titles, and numerous other honours, including the 2023 Champions League.
However, Silva appears set to leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of the season, with a return to Benfica reportedly on the cards.
City are now planning ahead, and it seems they already have a potential successor in mind.
City Eyeing Mateus Fernandes
West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes. (Reuters/Paul Childs)
According to Football Insider, Manchester City are considering a move for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes as Silva’s long-term replacement.
The 21-year-old has been a standout for the Hammers this season, making 25 appearances, scoring four goals, and providing three assists.
Fernandes has been described as “excellent” by former Premier League defender Ashley Williams, reflecting his growing influence in a difficult campaign.
West Ham, currently battling relegation, have no intention of letting Fernandes leave this month. But a summer sale could be a different story.
The Portuguese midfielder was signed from Southampton for £42 million in August, and with City’s resources, his price could rise to around £50 million if he remains in top form.
From Manchester City’s perspective, a relegation-threatened West Ham might make a deal slightly more affordable — though it would be a significant loss for Nuno Espirito Santo and the Hammers if they are unable to keep their star in the Premier League.
Whether it ends up as a huge financial windfall or a damaging blow on the pitch will depend largely on West Ham’s survival this season.