Manchester City are distancing themselves from links with a move for Barcelona forward Lionel Messi.
The likelihood of another early Champions League exit for Barcelona has fuelled speculation he is could quit the Nou Camp.
Uncertainty remains due to the ongoing presidential elections at Barca, with all candidates saying they are determined to keep the 33-year-old.
Messi has won six Ballon D'Or trophies in a stellar career that has seen him generally accepted as one of the finest players ever.
City have long been touted as an alternative, partly due to the link with former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola, although Paris St-Germain are also thought to be interested.