The father of Lionel Messi has warned Barcelona in new contract talks of interest from Manchester City. The Daily Express says Messi snr. has been able to cite interest from Manchester City - with the Citizens said to be planning a world record bid for the diminutive forward - as an alternative destination if his demands are not met.

New tax regulations coming into effect in Spain next season are set to substantially impact Messi's earning potential.

And City are willing to offer the player £340,000-a-week to bring Messi to the Premier League.

It now remains to be seen who will win this battle of wills between two giants of the European football scene.