Transfer Centre

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola 'in Barcelona amid Lionel Messi speculation'

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 29 August 2020

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly in Barcelona amid speculation regarding a move for Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has reportedly landed in Barcelona amid speculation regarding a move for Barcelona captain Lionel Messi.

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner has announced his desire to leave the club where he has spent his entire senior career, and City have been tipped to make a sensational bid for Messi since the forward handed in a transfer request.

Despite the fact that Juventus have allegedly touched base with Messi's entourage in recent days, Man City are regarded as the favourites for the Argentine's signature.

According to Spanish outlet El Chiringuito, Guardiola is hoping to have a chat with Messi face-to-face while in Barcelona, and the pair have already spoken over the phone regarding a move to the Etihad.

The report claims that Messi can look forward to a staggering £1.4m-a-week wage at Man City, although fellow financial powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain are believed to still be in the running for his signature.

Messi and Guardiola enjoyed a spate of success during their time together at Camp Nou, winning three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies between 2008 and 2012.