Outspoken agent Francois Gallardo has revealed Real Madrid made an attempt to sign Barcelona star Lionel Messi last summer. Speaking on Punto Pelota, Gallardo, who has connections with Karim Benzema's management team, says Real and kit sponsors adidas came together to bid for Messi in the offseason.
The approach was turned down by Barca, but Real will try again for Messi at the end of this season.
Chelsea and Bayern Munich are also interested and like Real, will attempt to prise the Argentine away from the Nou Camp next summer.
Gallardo, who was involved in the negotiations, is adamant that "Messi is seriously thinking about leaving Barca in the near future".
