August 21 – It’s only a rumour at this stage but could it actually happen? Are Barcelona set to lose their most prized possession?
Following Paris St Germain buying out Neymar’s contract to prize the Brazilian away from Barcelona for a world record fee, the most audacious transfer in history is now the subject of growing speculation after the Daily Record newspaper reported Manchester City could be about to pull off the coup of all time by signing Lionel Messi.
The paper claims City officials – the club was in Catalonia last week for a training camo and friendly against Girona – met with Messi’s representatives last week to discuss a possible move. Although the Argentine wizard signed a new four-year contract in July, the Record says City are hopeful of the prospect of reuniting Messi with his former manager Pep Guardiola.
Messi, now 30, has scored 508 goals in 585 games for Barcelona since 2004, helping them to eight titles and four Champions League crowns.
Any transfer could cost up to €300 million but City are reportedly willing to meet Messi’s release clause. The Daily Record quote a Barcelona source as saying: “He is seriously considering leaving. He is open to a move, but knowing the player it will take him a while to decide.”
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