Manchester City continue to be in the lead to sign FC Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi.
Speaking on the Spanish program El Chiringuito TV, Jose Alvarez Haya revealed:
” Man City continue to lead the chase for Messi. It makes sense, City and PSG are possibly two of the only clubs who can afford Messi.”
” There are mainly two reasons in City’s favor. First is Pep Guardiola. Guardiola is a big supporter of Messi and a reunion could be possible. Second is the presence of his best friend off the field, Sergio Aguero”.
Manchester City were in the pole position to sign Leo Messi in the summer. The Argentine was reportedly fed up of the Barcelona board and wanted to move away. Though, a big meeting with club President Josep Maria Bartomeu did not reveal a satisfactory ending.
Barcelona refused to let Messi leave for a fee less than his release clause. Any player who is going to cost €700 million is probably not easy to buy.
City did miss out on Messi in the summer, but have a chance to bring him home next season. The Argentine is currently in the last year of his contract. He may be inclined to leave Barca if a suitable offer presents itself.
Though, If City want to sign Messi, Pep Guardiola and Sergio Aguero are going to be vital cogs in the whole process. Messi has great respect for Guardiola since their time together at Barca and Aguero is his best friend.
Though, both of them are also in the last year of their respective contracts at the club.
A possible reunion with not only Guardiola and Aguero but Cristiano Ronaldo may attract Messi to England. Ronaldo is reportedly being linked to a return to England. Messi may not like to miss a golden chance to play against his biggest competitor.
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo share 11 Ballon d’Or’s between them.