The Portuguese sat down for a conversation with ESPN, discussing an array of topics including his future at the Etihad Stadium.

Bernardo Silva's future at Manchester City has come under heavy speculation for the second summer transfer window in a row. Despite guiding the Cityzens to a successful Premier League title defense last season, several sources claim the Portuguese ace is keen on a new challenge and has identified one club as his ideal next destination.

That team is none other than Barcelona, the Spanish giants who are spending big this summer despite their financial crisis. Gerard Romero, a well-known and highly-regarded Catalan journalist, has even claimed that there is an agreement between the Blaugrana and the 28-year-old that he will see him switch the Etihad Stadium for the Camp Nou.

Others report that while things aren't as advanced as this, Barcelona are simply waiting for the exit of Frenkie de Jong before mounting an official bid for the former Monaco ace. Nonetheless, Silva's move to Spain appears to be closer than ever before.

But is there any truth to these reports? Is Bernardo pushing for a move to Catalonia? The midfielder sat down for an interesting interview with ESPN in which he discussed an array of topics, with the transfer links being brought up. His response to the speculation regarding his future was interesting and while he gave a coy response, Silva's refusal to rule out an exit will leave everyone with food for thought.

"I've always said that I'm happy here, but I have no idea what's going to happen," he said when asked about his future. 

"We'll see, honestly. My relationship with the club is very honest. I've been open with them and they know what I want. If I stay, I'm very happy, and I will always respect this club and give all my best. If not, it's football and we'll just see what happens."

Another factor is Pep Guardiola's stance and his willingness to let unhappy players leave as long as the club's valuation was met. This issue was brought forward to Silva, with the reporter mentioning Gabriel Jesus and Raheem Sterling, who were granted transfers to City's direct rivals Arsenal and Chelsea. 

In response, the Portuguese ace stressed that he has a respectful relationship with his current employers and at no point did he air an unwillingness to remain with the Premier League champions should a move fail to materialize.

"It's a big club, and they don't want players who are not happy at the club," Silva added. "They always say to all of us that if you're not happy, you can go. Of course, they are in business and they want the right amount of money for letting us go, but personally it's a relationship with the club that is very respectful. They have always been honest with me and I have always been honest with them.

"As I said, I will always respect my relationship with Man City, with the fans, with the staff, with my teammates, so whatever happens happens and for sure, it will happen in a very respectful way."