Lionel Messi has reportedly agreed to terms of a staggering €700million (£623m) contract from Premier League side Manchester City amidst the growing transfer saga.
Duncan Castles, a reporter for the Daily Record, claims Manchester City and Messi have agreed to terms on a five-year deal worth €700million (£623m).
This supposed offer equals his release clause and would see Messi spend three years in the Premier League with the Manchester club and the final two years with New York City FC.
Both Manchester City and New York City Fc are owned by City Football Group (CFG), and it is reported that CFG could offer Messi an equity stake as compensation included in the agreed contract.
If this deal goes through, the Argentine superstar would become the best-paid footballer in the world throughout the time of the contract.
Messi had earlier told the Barcelona board about his desire to quit the Camp Nou and it appears his destination would be the Premier League.
The 33-year-old is keen on an emotional reunion with Spanish head coach, Pep Guardiola, who gave the Spanish giants their first treble during his stint at the club.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Barcelona presidential candidate Victor Font hopes the club can keep hold of their best player, but if otherwise, should allow his exit be a smooth one.
He said; “That’s the hope, right? Until it’s over there is always hope. And therefore I really hope the decision can be changed.
“It doesn’t seem likely, though, and therefore if that’s the case, the focus should be on making the transition as smooth as possible.
“And the ties between Messi and Barcelona that go very deep, remain there, so we can ensure somehow, the relationship continues in the future.”
With Barcelona demanding Messi’s release clause be triggered, the Manchester City hierarchy would hope Messi’s legal team can negotiate a deal that allows him to leave the Camp Nou on a free transfer.
Messi is currently contracted to Barcelona until 2021 and has a release clause of €700million.
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