Pep Guardiola says Lionel Messi’s release clause could be met, fuelling speculation over a £275million mega-transfer.
It comes amid much talk around the Barcelona superstar.
Following the £198m departure of Neymar, suggestions that others could leave the Nou Camp have not seemed so unfathomable. That has included the most coveted of the lot – Messi.
Reports emerged in recent days suggesting the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was ‘seriously considering’ his future at the Nou Camp.
It’s claimed that that Argentinean, who has 508 goals in 585 games for Barcelona since 2004, is frustrated with the current situation at the club. He did not want to see Neymar depart and has seen the club struggle since to fill the void. Those transfer problems have been compounded by successive defeats to Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup.
If Messi were open to a move, only very few clubs could meet his £275m release clause. Among them is Manchester City, now managed by Messi’s former coach Guardiola.
Speaking last night the former Barcelona manager said a move for Messi was possible.
‘I don’t know. Someone might have if they have the money and want to spend it,’ said Guardiola.
‘It might happen.’
The Daily Record recently claimed that the Premier League outfit have held talks with Messi’s representatives.
The Sky Blues have held a genuine interest in Messi for years and are understood to be seeking another striker before the close of the transfer window. Arsenal contract rebel Alexis Sanchez has appeared the most likely arrival.
MORE : Man City have made some excellent signings this summer, admits Manchester United star Chris Smalling
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