Manchester City are reportedly still confident that they are the frontrunners for Barcelona's Lionel Messi.
The 33-year-old's future remains the subject of much speculation as his contract at Camp Nou is due to expire at the end of June.
The Argentina international attempted to leave the Catalan giants on a free transfer last summer but the move was blocked by the club, who insisted that he must see out the final year of his deal.
Messi has again been in strong form for Ronald Koeman's side this season, scoring 24 times and registering nine assists in 32 appearances in all competitions.
A recent report claimed that the South American was open to the possibility of signing a new deal with Barca depending on the outcome of the club's presidential elections.
Paris Saint-Germain have also been strongly linked with Messi, but according to The Mirror, Man City still believe that they will be at the head of the queue if the attacker decides to seek pastures new.
Pep Guardiola's side are also allegedly determined to sign Borussia Dortmund's Erling Braut Haaland.
