Bernardo Silva emerges as Bellingham alternative for Real Madrid

Real Madrid are looking at Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva as an alternative target were they to miss on No.1 target Jude Bellingham, according to ESPN.

It has been widely reported that Los Blancos and Man City are leading the race for the Borussia Dortmund prospect, while Manchester United and Liverpool have fallen behind in the pursuit.

Man City’s interest in Bellingham raises doubts over the futures of players like Ilkay Gundogan and Silva. Gundogan’s contract expires in the summer, and he has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona.

Similarly, Silva is on the transfer wishlist of the Catalan giants, who have been tracking the Portuguese international for a while.

The Blaugrana were keen on landing the 28-year-old last summer, but Man City’s expensive valuation saw them cool their interest.

Despite being an integral player for Pep Guardiola, speculation around the future of Silva continues to do rounds.

Earlier, the former AS Monaco star stated that he is in no rush to make a decision on his future, though he declared his interest in moving to pastures green.

Madrid are now looking to scupper the works of their arch-rivals by trying to lure Silva to Santiago Bernabeu.

The midfield reinforcements are a priority for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, with Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Dani Ceballos out of contract come the summer.

Bellingham has been earmarked as the priority target, with Los Blancos initiating talks with his entourage and planning to table an offer worth around €140 million.

However, Madrid are looking to have a contingency plan, and they admire the profile of Silva owing to his immense quality and experience.

Celta Vigo’s hot sensation Gabri Veiga is another player the Spanish capital giants are paying close attention to.