Man City could offer Lionel Messi pre-contract in January and snap him up on FREE transfer

Barcelona icon Lionel Messi's rebellion against club hierarchy previous summer sent shockwaves across footballing world. Barcelona somehow forced six-time Ballon d'Or winner to continue, though his current contract ends in June next year with extension talks in sight. Premier League heavyweights Manchester City, who missed out on opportunity to seal Lionel Messi transfer previous summer, are reportedly looking to act quicker this time around with a pre-contract in place for Argentine. 

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Lionel Messi contract ends at end of  season 

Lionel Messi's contract runs out at end of current season. Argentine icon is yet to extend his stay at Camp u and he will be legally eligible to agree to a pre-contract before joining any prospective club on a free transfer in summer. Lionel Messi's conflict with president Josep Maria Bartomeu was considered main reason for his exit demands. 

Bartomeu tendered his resignation last week and it was hoped appointment of a new president would bring about a change at Camp u. More so, it was believed Lionel Messi would change his mind and pen down a new contract with Catalan giants. se claims appear to have gone for a toss for w with Man City still hovering, hoping to sign six-time Ballon d'Or winner. 

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Messi to Man City talks reignite, Cityzens to offer pre-contract 

According to a report by Telegraph, Lionel Messi is yet to make up his mind on speaking with Barcelona, furr hinting at his purported move away from club. report claims 33-year-old will only speak to club 'later in campaign'. Meanwhile, he will be free to enter a pre-agreement with any prospective club starting in January. 

Man City are keen on signing Lionel Messi next summer, in what has t quite been a well-kept secret in footballing cirlces. But club do t wish to wait until business end of current campaign and will instead offer a pre-contract in January to seal Lionel Messi transfer. Man City's chief operating officer Omar Berrada had earlier confirmed club's interest in Messi, claiming y will explore possibility of signing Barcelona captain, putting aside ir investment plans.

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Barcelona's on-field struggles continue 

Messi's frustration was re for all to see in Barcelona's draw against Alaves. Argentine skipper tried to hit ball at referee, only to be booked for same. Barca w languish at 12th spot in LaLiga with a mere eight points in six games. Blaugrana have endured ir worst LaLiga start since 2002, a reason that could make or break a deal for Lionel Messi. 

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Im courtesy: Leo Messi Instagram