Manchester City hasn't given up on the possibility of eventually signing Lionel Messi, according to The Sun.

Messi is entering the final two seasons of his current deal with Barcelona. But sporting director Robert Fernandez is confident Messi will sign a new contract this season with Barcelona. Messi has also talked about returning to Argentina to play for Newell's Old Boys after the 2018 World Cup.

City is hoping the presence of Pep Guardiola could tempt Messi to consider joining their project.