Barcelona transfer news: City hold talks for Messi, The Catalans want Alli instead of Coutinho and more - 9th October 2017

Manchester City showing serious interest in signing Messi

The Argentine had agreed to a new deal in the summer with Barcelona that will keep him at the club beyond the current contract which is set to expire in the summer of 2018. However, Messi is yet to actually sign the contract and the delay is causing concern for the club.

Now, Spanish newspaper AS reports that Manchester City have held talks with Messi's representatives to try to lure the 30-year old to England. Pep Guardiola's presence at City is the single biggest factor for Messi as the former helped Leo unlock his full potential around a decade back.

The blue half of Manchester are reportedly willing to pay a whopping €400 million in January itself to sign the player. If Messi does not a sign the contract before January, then Barcelona will have a real fight on their hands to keep the Argentine.

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Dele Alli on Barcelona's radar

Dele Alli is now a target for Barcelona

Along with Harry Kane, Alli is one of the brightest English prospects and both are already top performers in the Premier League. Alli's performances have now caught Barcelona's attention and Catalan newspaper, Sport, reports that the 21-year old is now the preferred choice of the Spanish club instead of Liverpool's Philippe Coutinho.

The attacking midfielder is currently in the process of changing agents, giving an indication of the fact that he could be open for a move. From Barcelona's perspective, the Englishman would cost around €150 million as compared to the rumoured €200 million valuation of Coutinho.

If Tottenham endure another barren season and Barcelona come in for Alli, then it will prove to be a tough job for Mauricio Pochettino to hold on to his prized asset.

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Barcelona want to close Griezmann deal before 2018 World Cup

Griezmann is reportedly wanted by Ernesto Valverde

Mundo Deportivo reports that Ernesto Valverde wants to sign the Atletico Madrid superstar, as early as January. Griezmann reportedly has a clause of €100 million which is effective from July 1st, which is making Barcelona believe that Atletico will accept a bid under €200 million for the Frenchman.

Further, Diego Costa is set to join Diego Simeone's side once the transfer ban lifts in January, implying the Colchoneros could be open for a sale. If Barcelona move for the player in the upcoming winter transfer window, then Manchester United will be handed a blow as Jose Mourinho was interested in signing the player this summer.

Irrespective of Jose Mourinho returning back for Griezmann, Barcelona are expected to splash more on top players in January and Griezmann would definitely be a quality addition.