Lionel Messi reportedly turned down a huge offer to join Manchester City before penning an extension at Barcelona.

The Argentine signed a new £500,000-a-week contract last month, keeping him at the Nou Camp until 2021.

But only after a blockbuster offer from the Etihad in a desperate attempt to lure him to the Premier League.

MARCA reports City put on the table a deal worth a staggering £850,000-a-week alongside a stunning £88m (€100m) signing bonus.

It is suggested City made the bid to Messi's representatives without Barcelona's permission.

City could have spoken to Messi in he new year, had he not signed the extension, with his previous deal expiring in the summer.

But the Premier League leaders reportedly knew they needed to act if they were to ever lure the 30-year-old to the Etihad.

Messi is having another superb season with Barca, who are five points clear at the top of La Liga.

He scored his side's first goal in their weekend 2-2 draw with Celta Vigo.

Mirror