What started off as a rumour which was probably circulated to generate traction during the pre-season period, eventually became a very serious possibility. This is of course, about the Lionel Messi saga with his beloved club FC Barcelona.
There was a lot of talk which saw the incident develop a sequence of incidents. It involved starting off with a burofax sent to the board requesting a free transfer departure, which was met with swift defiance from Bartomeu and his troops.
Ultimately, however, Messi decided to stay at the club but not before he revealed in an exclusive interview about his reasons to depart a team that has been part of his life for nearly two decades now.
But, that story has sought to revive itself than be buried, with a media report now stating that EPL club Manchester City are preparing a “pre-contract” offer to the Argentine superstar when the winter window opens in January.
However, the recent uncertainty in the management at the club with Bartomeu exiting ahead of the presidential elections might force a change in Messi’s plans.
In fact, the fact of the matter is that Barcelona are in the midst of a financial crisis and could even head towards bankruptcy if certain criteria are not met – mainly their issues with regards to the hugely mounting wage bill.
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It was rumoured that Man City’s parent organisation, the City Football Group, had already prepared a five-year contract offer in the summer, which would have still seen his €40 million a season salary remain intact.
And now, with Barcelona on the brink of a financial collapse, selling someone like Messi who is on huge wages might just prove to be a wise decision, albeit forced.
City COO Omar Berrada has openly courted a move for Messi and if the cards are stacked right, it could very well be the case that a global superstar might decide to feature in the Premier League for a few seasons.
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