Galatasaray is preparing one of the boldest free-transfer moves of the summer, The Turkish champions are ready to offer €15m-a-year for Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva.
Talks have already escalated beyond initial contact, putting Europe's elite on alert as Silva nears a decisive career decision.
The 31-year-old is entering the final months of his contract at Manchester City, with neither the club nor the player showing signs of agreeing to an extension. As a result, clubs across Europe have begun to prepare themselves for his signature.
Few free agents on the market can match Silva's pedigree. During his nine-year tenure at Manchester City, the Portuguese midfielder won six Premier League titles, one Champions League and made over 440 appearances, becoming one of Pep Guardiola's most trusted men.
Galatasaray's €15m offer changes the market
Turkish outlet Takvim reports Galatasaray's approach has already reached the second phase. The club are planning direct talks with Silva's representatives next month.
Those discussions will focus on Manchester City's proposed annual salary of €15m for the player. This is a figure that would immediately put the Turkish side ahead of most European competitors.
Galatasaray are moving quickly in an attempt to control the narrative regarding Silva's future. By acting decisively, they hope to outbid rivals who are interested but unwilling or unable to offer similar terms.
Recent success in the transfer market has built the club's confidence. Last summer, Galatasaray secured Leroy Sane on a free transfer from Bayern Munich. That move cemented their growing ambition to compete domestically and in Europe.
Barcelona and Milan keep a close eye on the situation
Interest in the Manchester City player is not limited to Turkiye. Reports from Italy indicate that Juventus view the midfielder as A signing that is capable of changing their side in an instant. Barcelona and AC Milan are also said to be monitoring the situation closely.
However, none of those clubs currently appear willing to match Galatasaray's €15m‑per‑year offer.
That financial difference could prove decisive, especially if Silva prioritizes security and position in the next phase of his career.
Silva is reportedly very pleased with Galatasaray's interest. A report from Milliet last year Claimed that representatives of the Turkish club have already met his agent. This positive effect appears to have persisted as the proposed conditions have improved.
With talks scheduled for April and now an attractive offer, which also includes a signing bonus, Galatasaray are pushing hard. The decision is now up to Silva. Does he accept a new challenge in Istanbul or use Galatasaray's ambition to shape the final chapter of an already illustrious career.
