Man City source denies making big proposal for player – Club have no evidence of Citizens offer

Lionel Messi made a u-turn over his decision to leave Barcelona, more than a week after he informed the club about his desire to move elsewhere.

Manchester City were considered as favourites to sign the 33-year-old, before he changed his decision.

Earlier claims suggested the Citizens could only undertake an operation to sign the Argentine if they could sign him on a free transfer.

L’illustré, however, reported otherwise as they state City sporting director Txiki Begiristain made a €200m bid for the Barca star, and the fee was to be paid in two instalments.

Mundo Deportivo have looked at these claims and have contacted both Pep Guardiola’s side and the La Liga giants regarding L’illustré’s report.

The newspaper states a source close to the Etihad club has denied a mammoth offer was made for Messi. The Premier League side also suggested they couldn’t undertake a €200m worth transfer this summer. 

Barcelona sources have confirmed to Mundo that they have no evidence of receiving any proposal from City for Messi.