SADIO MANE has been “offered to Barcelona” to replace wantaway Lionel Messi, according to shock reports in Europe.
The Argentine legend, 33, stunned the footballing world after announcing he wanted to leave Barca after a shambolic end to their 2019-20 season.
Barcelona could target Sadio Mane if Lionel Messi leaves, say reportsCredit: Rex Features
Lionel Messi shocked football when he revealed he wanted to quit BarcelonaCredit: Manu Fernandez
Man City are the early favourites to sign Messi, with the player even claimed to have called Pep Guardiola ahead of a potential reunion, having previously worked together at the Nou Camp.
And reports in Europe claim Mane could move to Barcelona thanks to Ronald Koeman.
The Senegalese star, 28, was arguably the best of the Reds’ star-studded front-three last term as they won their first-ever Premier League crown.
And his hot form had seen the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid contemplate a summer move.
But despite being a fan of Los Blancos boss Zinedine Zidane, Mane could opt to move to Barca to rekindle his relationship with Koeman.
Mane was catapulted onto the global scene after lighting up the Premier League under the Dutchman at Southampton before his £30milion move to Anfield in 2016.
Liverpool don’t want to sell their star man.
Sadio Mane scored 18 times in the Premier League last seasonCredit: Reuters
However, Mane has stalled on signing a new contract, with his current deal expiring at the end of the 2022-23 season.
That has alerted Reds officials to the possibility of cashing in while the Senegal winger is at the peak of his powers.
Kop bosses are set to demand at least £108m for Mane – who scored 18 goals and added seven assists in the Premier League last season.
Why does Lionel Messi want to leave Barcelona?
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
