Manchester City 'putting together plan to sign Lionel Messi'

Manchester City are reportedly 'serious' about signing Lionel Messi and are putting together a plan to convince the Barcelona attacker to move to the Etihad Stadium.

The 33-year-old failed to force a move away from Camp Nou over the summer, but he will be free to leave next June when his current deal expires.

According to Eurosport, City remain interested in the Argentina international, while the experienced attacker views a move to the Citizens as 'intriguing'.

The report claims that Messi is expected to be offered the chance to join New York City FC after his time at the Etihad Stadium comes to an end, with the MLS outfit also part of City Football Group.

Over the summer, it was suggested that the South American could spend three years with Pep Guardiola's side before representing New York City FC for two seasons in a deal worth £623m.

Messi, who will allegedly be due a €33m (£30m) loyalty bonus from Barca even if he leaves on a free next summer, has scored six times and registered four assists in 10 appearances at club level this term.