Eric Garcia says ‘everyone would like Lionel Messi in their team’ but insists the Manchester City squad have not discussed the possibility of the Barcelona superstar joining the club this summer.
Argentinian forward Messi looks set to leave the Nou Camp after telling Barca he wishes to exercise a clause in his contract allowing him to leave for free with immediate effect.
Premier League giants Man City have emerged as the favourites to sign Messi, with manager Pep Guardiola winning a number of trophies with the legendary player during his spell at Barcelona.
Messi, who made his debut for Barca in 2004, has won the Ballon d’Or six times and the Champions League four times.
Manchester City defender Garcia says any team would want Messi to join them but insists his team-mates have not discussed the transfer rumours.
‘At Man City we have not talked about Messi coming, but everyone would like to have Messi in their team,’ the former Barcelona academy player said.
‘On the Messi issue, it’s something between clubs that I can’t get into.
‘I am going to avoid the question if he would be a good signing for City because he is a Barca player and I’m not going to comment on it.’
Garcia also discussed his future at Manchester City as he continues to be linked with a move away from the Etihad.
‘I told City that I will not renew my contract, but still I have one season with them and hope to return,’ the 19-year-old added.
‘My goal is to train and play as much as possible to show here [with the Spanish national team] and in Manchester that the coach can count on me.
‘What comes next is something I don’t know. I can’t control. I focus on what I can control.’
