According to The Sun former Manchester United midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron has helped his old city rivals in the purchase of a 17 Argentinian prodigy who’s been dubbed as ‘mini Messi.’
The prodigy we speak of is 17-year-old Dario Sarmiento and according to South American football expert Tim Vickery the the deal ‘is almost done.’
According to The Sun Sarmiento is on his way to Etihad when he turns 18 in March and the wonder-kid will cost in the region of £17 million.
Sarmiento could possibly be linking up with Messi next season as the six time ballon d’Or winner has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester City with reports circulating that he’d only be interested in a move to England if Sergio Aguero and Pep Guardiola remain at the club.
Agreement in principle: Lionel Messi smiling at Barcelona after securing Premier League move
The 33 year-old looked all set to pack his bags at the end of last season but was convinced to stay due to an ongoing legal dispute with Barcelona over his release clause.
Messi was of the belief his clause had expired but the Catalan club claimed it was still valid and any club wanting to sign him would have to pay the €700m fee.