Manchester City are reportedly opting for a more low-key approach than Paris Saint-Germain in their pursuit of Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi.
The Argentine is running down the final few months of his Blaugrana contract and is expected to move on in the summer, unless he agrees a new deal with Barcelona before then.
Man City and PSG are thought to be the only two realistic destinations for the six-time Ballon d'Or winner, who would be available on a free but would still command a huge salary.
Several members of PSG's playing and non-playing staff have talked up the prospect of Messi plying his trade at the Parc des Princes recently - tactics that have reportedly led to an angry reaction from Barcelona.
As a result, ESPN report that City are instead choosing to go about their business quietly, and they have already touched base with Messi's entourage ahead of a potential bid in the spring or summer.
Barcelona presidential candidate Joan Laporta has confirmed that Messi has already received offers from "clubs that do not lack money", with PSG reportedly lining up an £800k-a-week deal for the 33-year-old.
Messi has found the back of the net 17 times in all competitions this term and came off the bench to propel Barcelona to victory over Real Betis on Sunday.
Ben Knapton
