Man City’s Lionel Messi transfer stance after icon leaves Barcelona

Lionel Messi: Possible PSG move discussed by Julien Laurens

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Manchester City do not plan to sign Lionel Messi following the superstar’s dramatic exit from Barcelona, according to reports. Messi has left Barca after the club cited “financial and structural obstacles” which have prevented him from signing a new contract.

Messi technically became a free agent at the end of June.

The 34-year-old was expected to sign a new deal to extend his stay at the Nou Camp.

Last month it was claimed Messi had agreed a five-year contract on half the money he was previously earning.

But Barca have failed to meet La Liga’s financial demands and they have officially announced the player’s departure.

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City have long been linked with a move for Messi, especially since Pep Guardiola’s arrival as manager.

But The Times claims City will not be entering the race for the forward.

City are closing in on the signing of Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish for £100million.

Grealish underwent his medical on Thursday ahead of his move to the Etihad.

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City also want to sign Tottenham and England striker Harry Kane.

Kane will cost northwards of £100m, though Spurs’ stance is that the 28-year-old is not for sale.

The Athletic claims City have twice attempted to sign Messi in the past but for the deal to fall through.

City wanted Messi 12 months ago so pulled out of a deal to sign Kane.

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But they will now remain focused on signing Kane, with The Athletic claiming Messi has missed his chance of joining the reigning Premier League champions.

Barca released a statement on Thursday evening confirming Messi’s exit.

The statement read: “Despite FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi having reached an agreement and the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, this cannot happen because of financial and structural obstacles (Spanish Liga regulations).

“As a result of this situation, Messi shall not be staying on at FC Barcelona. Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of the player and the club will ultimately not be fulfilled.

“FC Barcelona wholeheartedly expresses its gratitude to the player for his contribution to the aggrandisement of the club and wishes him all the very best for the future in his personal and professional life.”

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