MADRID — Atletico Madrid have emerged as contenders to sign Bernardo Silva on a free transfer when his contract at Manchester City expires at the end of the season. Sporting Director Mateu Alemany is leading the effort to bring the 31-year-old Portugal international to the Metropolitano.

Silva has announced his exit this summer at the end of his contract, ending a nine-year spell at the Etihad. This season, he has scored three goals and provided five assists in 52 appearances.

Alemany is negotiating a two-year deal with a one-year extension based on objectives with Silva's agent, Jorge Mendes. The signing has the backing of all levels of the club, and Atletico's offer is currently the most attractive on the table for the midfielder. Silva is set to prioritize a move to the Metropolitano.

Juventus, AC Milan and Barcelona were also mentioned as interested parties. Silva had been heavily linked with Barcelona for some time and was keen on a move to the Catalan capital, where Mendes has strong links. After Barcelona turned down the chance to sign him, Juventus moved to the top of the list of contenders for his signature before Atletico entered the race.

The pursuit coincides with the departure of Antoine Griezmann, who is leaving Atletico this summer. Silva has always been much more of a midfielder than Griezmann, although the Frenchman has operated deeper at points during the season. Silva can perform duties as a number 10 but tends not to make runs in behind the defense.