Former Premier League midfielder Trevor Sinclair thinks the prospect of Lionel Messi joining Manchester City may be the reason behind the failed attempts to get Kevin de Bruyne to sign a new deal.
City are desperate for the Belgian playmaker to extend his stay at the Etihad, with De Bruyne's current contract expiring in 2023.
The 29-year-old rejected their first offer, however, and is said to believe he is worth a higher wage given his reputation as arguably the best player in the Premier League.
City have been strongly linked with a move for six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi, who is set to leave Barcelona at the end of the season.
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