Manchester City leading Lionel Messi race

According to El Chiringuito, Manchester City are leading the race for Barcelona forward Lionel Messi. It has been reported that City wanted to sign the Argentina international in the summer of 2020 when he publicly stated his desire to leave the Spanish and European giants and remain keen on bringing the 33-year-old to the Etihad Stadium.

The report has added that there are two important factors to consider regarding a potential move for Messi to City. The Argentine worked with City manager Pep Guardiola at Barcelona and is also a very close friend of Citizens striker and international teammate Sergio Aguero.

Messi is one of the greatest footballers of all time and has been on the books of Barcelona his entire professional club football career so far. The 33-year-old would be a blockbuster signing for City and would be a massive statement of intent from the former Premier League champions.