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Manchester City are set to make a second attempt to secure Lionel Messi’s services once the transfer window opens in January. The Premier League club failed in its search for the Argentine in the summer after Barcelona refused to let him go.
As things stand, Messi is available to discuss terms with other clubs in January before his contract expires at the Camp Nou in late June 2021. Now a reunion with Pep Guardiola could be seen. According to the Telegraph, City are preparing to make Messi a pre-contract offer in January that, if agreed, would see the six-time Ballon d’Or winner move to the Etihad Stadium for free at the end of the season.
Citizens believe that they can take advantage of the uncertainty surrounding Barcelona after the resignation of Josep Maria Bartomeu as president and the subsequent elections, which will be held around Christmas. As City understands, Barcelona is already resigned to losing Messi once his contract expires next summer. With the Catalan club in serious financial difficulties, City could even decide to make them an offer to sign the 33-year-old in January.
“He is an incredible talent, someone who can have a significant impact on any club on and off the pitch immediately,” admitted Omar Berrada, City’s chief financial officer. “He is the best player in the world. I think any club would like to explore the possibility of incorporating him into their team. If Leo leaves Barcelona and the possibility arises, we could explore the option of signing him.”
A trade to Etihad would see Messi work with Guardiola for the second time in his career. Their first stage together, in Barcelona, was full of covers and countless successes. The prospect of player and manager meeting in Manchester is tantalizing for anyone following the Premier League closely.
Source: m.allfootballapp.com
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