The 29-year-old is still not binding on a new contract at Camp Nou, fishing speculation that he would soon leave. And according to The Sun, United wanted to bring to the club.
However, although the Red Devils could buy Messi, they reportedly did not want to get involved in the hunt for the player, because he felt would be less competitive than their rivals.
The Argentine will be joined by Josep Guardiola in the City, which would make it have a greater chance to come to the Etihad.
A source at Old Trafford said: "City will be a favorite if she went one day, but we obviously want to recruit players with the high level as him."
"We obviously can compete in terms of financial and Messi are players Adidas, like Paul Pogba, so we had a plus. But at the same time, we will not engage in competitive bidding, unless the parties Messi gave no indication that he wants to come here."
