Manchester United are using help from Adidas to fund an audacious move for Lionel Messi, according to reports in Spain.
Marketing Deportivo claim that the German sportswear manufacturer, who are paying £75 million a season to sponsor United, are concerned by the team’s performances on the pitch, and are worried that United’s lack of success could ultimately damage their own brand.
To help matters, Adidas, who have sponsored Messi for over 13 years, are ready to team up with United in an effort to lure the Argentine away from Barcelona.
The Argentine’s current contract with the Spanish champions expires in 2018, while his buyout clause is set at £215m.
But United and Adidas are ready to pay Messi €100m (£85m) to not extend his deal with Barcelona.
And when his contract expires, United, again with the help of Adidas, would be able to offer a contract worth £42m.
The report also claims that Manchester City are willing to put a €230m (£195.6m) package together to sign Messi.
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