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As Lionel Messi edges ever closer to pledging his future to FC Barcelona by putting pen to paper on a bumper new deal, the rumour mill has gone into overdrive, speculating on everything from Messi's salary to the demands he reportedly made during the negotiations for his new deal. The majority of those rumours are absurd, and obviously so. Remember that report about Messi demanding €100 million a season? Of course it's impossible to forget a claim so manifestly absurd.
However, in amidst all the junk, there were a few somewhat believable stories -- including one involving Sergio Aguero. Perhaps "demand" would be too strong a word, but it seems entirely plausible that Lionel Messi would react favourably to the prospect of FC Barcelona prying Aguero away from Manchester City. So, when Catalan media outlet TV3 reported that Manchester City are open to the idea of parting with their star striker, it's difficult not to sit up and take note.
The catch?
Well, a potential deal would set the Blaugrana back at least €70 million.
Given that Barcelona parted with a hefty sum to bolster their offensive ranks last summer with the signing of Neymar, it seems unlikely that Barca would be willing to spend so much money on another attacking player, particularly when one considers the urgent need for defensive reinforcements. That being said, the club are facing a lengthy transfer ban -- and thus, their transfer kitty may be inflated this summer. Heck, if we're planning as much of an overhaul as some suggest, we could raise this kind of cash with player sales alone.
So Barcelona fans, what would you do? If Sergio Aguero was available this summer, would you make a bid? And if so, how much would you be willing to spend to secure his signature?
