LIONEL MESSI could be left in limbo because of a ‘superclub pact’ to avoid aggressive tactics over transfers.
Manchester City are the favourites to sign the wantaway Barcelona star, which would see a reunion with former boss Pep Guardiola.
Lionel Messi could be left out in the cold as clubs rein in their spendingCredit: AFP OR LICENSORS
French champs Paris Saint-Germain are also in the hunt for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner.
But according to Marca, Europe’s top clubs have ‘an agreement to avoid aggressive tactics’.
And with City and PSG having both been investigated by the Court of Arbitration for Sport over Financial Fair Play in the past, it could mean Messi is out in the cold.
The Messi saga took a stunning turn earlier today when his father and agent Jorge said the player is considering staying at Barcelona for one more year.
Messi reportedly has a £623million contract offer to join Manchester City this summer.
But after a “very good” meeting with the club bosses, his father admitted he could see out his contract in Spain.
Jorge was asked whether there was a possibility of the Argentine ace staying at the Nou Camp.
He simply replied: “Yes.”
Pep Guardiola is eager for a reunion with Messi at Manchester CityCredit: Handout – Getty
When asked how the meeting with Josep Maria Bartomeu went, he said: “Very good.”
The 33-year-old’s situation appears to have taken a huge U-turn after his dad allegedly told the club president: “My son isn’t staying.”
Jorge flew by private jet from his home in Rosario, Argentina, to Spain for showdown talks with Barcelona chiefs.
The discussion earlier this week lasted around 90 minutes – and they were not able to reach an agreement.
Messi demanded to leave the club on a free after he handed in his transfer request.
BARCA READY TO GO TO COURT
The Argentina international called for the club to activate the clause in his contract that allowed him to leave for nothing.
But the Spanish giants insisted the clause had expired – and that he could only leave if his £629m buy-out clause was met.
Barcelona have vowed to take their all-time top scorer to court if he leaves the club for free.
Lionel Messi’s dad Jorge confirms for first time son is considering staying at Barcelona after positive talks with club
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
