Back to the Soccer Newsfeed

'Difficult to stay at Barcelona' - Messi's father & agent opens door to Man City move

Lionel Messi's father and agent has opened the door to a move to Manchester City, admitting it will be "difficult" for the six-time Ballon d'Or winner to remain at Barca.

Messi shocked the football world last week by submitting a formal transfer request at Camp Nou, during which he outlined his desire to activate the release clause in his current contract, which expires in 2021.

A number of possible next destinations have been mooted for the Argentine in the wake of the news, including Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus, but Goal understands that City boss Guardiola has already contacted the diminutive superstar over a potential move.