Messi transfer: Man City plot January move for Barcelona icon after failed summer effort

Premier League heavyweights Manchester City were left disgruntled after y failed to land ir prime target – Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi – last summer. Argentina captain was keen on seeking an amicable exit from Camp u but n-club president Josep Maria Bartomeu vetoed his move claiming prospective clubs should abide by his release clause. However, Etihad-based outfit are yet to give up on ir Messi transfer pursuit as y line up a move in January.

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Messi Barcelona contract ends in June 2021

Messi will see his contract end next summer with contract extension talks in view while his relationship with Camp u outfit is still frosty. Barcelona do t wish to let ir talisman leave for free next summer, considering financial debt that club has accrued during coronavirus pandemic.

Barcelona are debt-strapped, with losses estimated at €488 million.  club has to cut down w bill by at least 30 per cent or €191 million to avoid going bankrupt in January. Moreover, Barcelona have highest w bill in Europe, owing largely to hefty contract of likes of Lionel Messi, Antoine Griezmann and co.

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Barcelone keen on cutting down Messi ws amid financial restraints 

Man City are keen on agreeing to a deal for Messi in January and Barcelona might be forced to oblige as y look to cut back on expenditure. Messi's ws, estimated at €565,000 a week as per Goal, is highest at club. A fee in range of €55 million might be eugh to convince Camp u outfit to agree a deal with Premier League heavyweights.

Messi has t quite fired on all cylinders under new manr Ronald Koeman this season. 33-year-old has netted just six times in 10 games for Barcelona across all competitions, hinting at a decline in his numbers. Meanwhile, Barcelona wish to sign reinforcements next summer and club might accept Man City's offer for six-time Ballon d'Or winner. 

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Messi transfer to ensure Guardiola's stay?

Messi to Man City deal, if materialises, could also play an important role in ensuring Pep Guardiola's stay at Etihad. re is commitment from former Barcelona boss on his stay beyond current season. Etihad chiefs believe landing Messi could propel Guardiola to continue. 

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Im courtesy: Leo Messi Instagram