Barca chief admits Lionel Messi could join Manchester City for £200m
BARCELONA international sporting director Ariedo Braida has fuelled speculation that Lionel Messi may leave the Catalan giants by saying a move to Manchester City or PSG “could happen”.
Lionel Messi has been in free scoring form for Barcelona
Messi, who scored his 32nd hat-trick for Barca against Rayo Vallecano in a 6-1 win on Sunday, was rumoured to be unhappy at the Nou Camp during the January transfer window.
But the Argentine international reportedly has a £205million release clause in his contract meaning any club hoping to sign him will have to smash the world transfer record to secure his signature.
Manchester United were also linked with Messi following claims that their new £750m Adidas deal could enable them to sign the four-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Lionel Messi Player Profile
However in an interview with Catalan TV channel Esport 3, Braida, who was appointed by Barcelona to a new technical committee in February admitted the 27-year-old could join City or the French champions.
"I think it’s almost impossible he (Messi) will leave but with Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, who have so much money, it could happen," he said.
"Sometimes strange things occur.
"But he’s a phenomenon, an extra-terrestrial who is comparable to Maradona and Pele."
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
