The Premier League giants have the pulling power to sign Argentina superstar after he revealed his shock decision to quit Barcelona
Manchester City have made no secret of their desire to sign Lionel Messi in the past, so when the Barcelona legend served his notice to cut ties with the club , a move to the Etihad Stadium was understandably mooted.
Signing the best player in the world is far from straightforward, however, and there is a lot that needs to happen before Messi sets foot in east Manchester.
City have always felt confident that they would be well-placed to have the pulling power to attract Barca’s record goalscorer were he to ever decide to quit Camp Nou.
That position could now be tested.
In coach Pep Guardiola, City have the man who brought out the very best in the forward, building a team around Messi that delivered two Champions League titles.
It is understood that Guardiola and Messi have spoken in recent days , with the pair still enjoying a strong relationship.
The Premier League outfit also have a football project to attract the interest of the six-time Ballon d’Or winner, with a host of elite players such as Kevin De Bruyne and Messi’s close friend Sergio Aguero also desperate for the Champions League trophy.
City have always been hugely respectful of Messi and have never agitated to get him away from Catalunya, even when he appeared to be on the brink of leaving in previous years.