This archive report was first published on 7 July 2020.
Manchester United are making a bold move to sign Lionel Messi, with the club reportedly willing to offer a huge transfer fee plus two players to convince Barcelona to sell the star player.
According to a report in Argentina, Messi's relationship with Barcelona is under strain this season, following a seemingly unsuccessful defence of the La Liga title. The Catalan giants are trailing leaders Real Madrid by four points with four matches to play.
As a result, Messi has reportedly decided to call off contract talks with Barcelona, with his current deal expiring next summer. Manchester United are said to be considering offering Sh14 billion (€120million) and one or two players in a bid to convince Messi to join the club.
However, Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has denied claims that Messi could cut ties with the club. In a statement, he said: “We are negotiating with many players but Messi has explained to us he wants to stay. And so we’re going to enjoy him for much longer.”
Messi has enjoyed another impressive season in front of goal, scoring 24 goals and assisting 27 others.
Paris Saint-Germain are also reportedly in the hunt for Messi, and are said to be willing to offer one or two stars in a deal.
