Manchester City have been warned by Trevor Sinclair that ongoing talk of a possible move for Lionel Messi could complicate matters when it comes to contract discussions with Kevin De Bruyne.
The talismanic Belgian midfielder is yet to commit to fresh terms at the Etihad Stadium.
There is no rush on that front for City, with De Bruyne already tied down until 2023, but the Blues would like to put an extension in place.
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Sinclair, though, believes a lack of progress on that front is down to a star turn in Manchester wanting pay parity with the very best in the business.