'If Messi comes to Manchester, I hope he signs for United': Juan Mata

Leo Messi's current deal with Barca runs until July 2021.

Juan Mata doesn't want to see the Argentine at Man City.

Let him join United instead, he says.

"Well I hope not [Messi won't join Man City] – I hope not for the betterment of my club," Juan Mata has said.

"I don't know what will happen, but I hope he doesn't go there. If he comes to Manchester I hope it's to my club [Man United] and not the other," the Spaniard added.

Messi's contract with Barcelona expires next summer, meaning that he'll be free to sign a pre-contract with a new club in January. According to an earlier report from The Telegraph, Man City are willing to make a move for the Argentine.