Lionel Messi father lands in Barcelona for showdown talks

The father of Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi arrived in Spain on Wednesday morning and is allegedly due to undergo showdown talks with the Catalan giants.

Jorge Messi, who represents his son, has flown from Argentina to Spain, landing in Barcelona on Wednesday morning, where he was met by a host of reporters.

When asked for the reason for his visit, Jorge replied: "I don't know anything, guys" before making quick getaway, but he is due to meet Barca chiefs on Wednesday afternoon.

Messi recently informed the La Liga outfit that he wants to leave during this summer's transfer window, and Manchester City are thought to be in the driving seat to secure his signature.

The Argentina international was not present during Barca's pre-season training session on Monday, while he also did not turn up for a coronavirus screening on Sunday.

The 33-year-old has a contract at Camp Nou until next June, but he is seemingly attempting to leave on a free transfer despite a clause allowing him to leave for nothing this summer expiring in June.

Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan are also believed to be in the hunt for his signature.