Has Joao Felix persuaded Bernardo Silva to seal Barcelona transfer?

Joao Felix has no doubt raised some eyebrows with his comments about talking to Portuguese teammate Bernardo Silva about joining him at Barcelona. Felix has made it clear he’s convinced Bernardo to come to Barca, and that they’ve spoken about life in the city and places to live.

Still, Felix also added an important point that it’s not down to the player for now. Even though what he said was a serious statement, the crucial point is Financial Fair Play for this story: Barca still don’t know how much they can spend, how it will work, so we’re at really early stages of the story. For sure Joao is big friend of Bernardo and he’d love Bernardo to join him at the Nou Camp.

Bernardo has been on Barcelona’s list for a long time – he was wanted by them last summer, but also by Paris Saint-Germain. At that time, Manchester City decided to extend his contract, but with a release clause, which is worth £50m and which is valid this summer. Interest from Barca has always been there, but let’s see what happens now with FFP, which will be crucial.

So, the clause is there, and Felix would be happy to have his fellow countryman and friend alongside him, but let’s see what Barcelona will decide to do, and PSG as well, but for sure it looks like one to watch for this summer.

Bernardo Silva in action for Man City

Another Manchester City story making headlines is strong links again with West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta. He’s always been one of the main names on their list. We all know last summer the deal was close then it collapsed. Paqueta would obviously be more than keen on that move, City interest remains but it will depend on multiple factors. It’s not something being discussed club-to-club at this point.

Latest on Ruben Amorim Liverpool talks

I wanted to clarify the situation on Ruben Amorim again, as I’ve had many Liverpool fans asking me about the stories of an agreement being close for him to replace Jurgen Klopp on a three-year deal.

My understanding remains that we are not yet at the final stages of the story. It’s true that contacts are really concrete – talks have taken place and will keep taking place, but we have to be patient and wait for the moment Liverpool make their final choice. I respect other journalists, but this remains my information for the moment so I think we still have to wait a bit longer for a conclusion to this saga.

In my opinion, Amorim would be a great option for Liverpool as he’s a smart, excellent modern coach. I’ve been really impressed by what he’s done at Sporting and I’m sure he could be a success at Anfield, if he ends up getting the job.

Juventus close on Felipe Anderson transfer but Arkadiusz Milik could leave

Juventus are one step away from completing their first signing for next season as they close in on a deal for Felipe Anderson from Lazio as a free agent. An agreement is really close, it could be ‘here we go’ very soon as it’s now just about the final steps and the final details. We’re really just one step away now and then Juventus will be able to complete the deal for the Brazilian winger.

Another Juventus story to watch out for this summer is that it’s a possibility for Arkadiusz Milik to leave Juventus. It’s not something 100% decided yet but a possibility; it will also depend on manager situation, with my expectation being that Massimiliano Allegri will not continue as Juve boss.

Still, Milik has just changed agents and will now take his time to consider all the options, though there’s still no indications about league or club yet, but it could be one to watch for sure.

What next for Gabriel Jesus?

I’ve spoken on here about Arsenal being likely to sign an important striker this summer, and Gabriel Jesus has spoken publicly about the situation and what he feels he can do to persuade the club not to make a signing in that position.

Still, I don’t think this transfer would mean anything for Jesus. He’s an important player for Arsenal; also, they have a top roaster for a top team and also with eight UCL games in the group next season plus all the other competitions you always need at least two important strikers. That’s why it doesn’t change anything for his future – he remains part of Arsenal plans.

Remember as well – Jesus has had numerous injury problems and spoke honestly about not being able to recall when he last played without pain. Let’s see if he can recover his best fitness and then I’m sure he can show what an important role he can play in Mikel Arteta’s side.

Graham Potter has been on Ajax’s list

I’m aware there have been reports of Graham Potter turning down an approach to become Ajax manager, but this is not something I’m aware of.

My understanding is that Potter has been on Ajax’s shortlist for weeks, alongside three more candidates. But at the moment he’s not in concrete talks with Ajax because they still have problems to resolve off the pitch, so it’s something very quiet.