Could a West Ham star be Manchester City's Bernardo Silva replacement?

Could a West Ham star be Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva replacement?

Could a West Ham star midfielder be Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva replacement if the Portuguese midfielder departs the champions this summer? Bernardo leaving the club isn’t a thought anyone connected with City wants to contemplate. But if he were to leave could Lucas Paqueta be his ideal replacement?

If Bernardo Silva were to depart City he may be the most difficult player to replace. Outside of Rodri, he is arguably City’s most important player. On top of his tremendous ability his workrate and ability to play in multiple roles make him an invaluable member of Pep Guardiola’s squad. Replacing what he adds to Manchester City is next to impossible. Such is his skillset and his way of playing there isn’t a player who could immediately come in and replace the Portuguese international.

Having said that could a West Ham star be one player who could fulfil Bernardo’s duties at the Etihad? Lucas Paqueta was a summer transfer target for the world champions. With his skillset and work rate, he could come in and take up the mantle left by Bernardo Silva. Paqueta has shone this season for West Ham. While he isn’t as versatile as Bernardo Silva he is a fantastic player in his own right. His game does appear suited for Manchester City. While City will not want to see Bernardo Silva depart if he does Paqueta could be the ideal player to fill his shoes.

Manchester City reportedly see Paqueta as their replacement for Bernardo Silva

Mike McGrath reports for the Telegraph that Manchester City sees Paqueta as the ideal replacement for Bernardo Silva. Furthermore, McGrath reports that PSG, Barcelona and Saudi Pro League clubs maintain an interest in the City star.

An interesting summer may lie ahead for the champions. If Bernardo does depart it seems City will could move quickly for Lucas Paqueta. The Brazilian could be the ideal player to come in and replace their Portuguese star if does depart this summer.

Tags Bernardo Silva Lucas Paqueta Manchester City Mike McGrath Pep Guardiola PSG Rodri the Telegraph West Ham United