With the turn of the year now behind us, football’s collective attention turns to transfers and although the latest window has been lacking in terms of activity, that might not be the case come the end of the season.
Because, with the market seemingly depressed at present, there is perhaps one switch that could spark things into life and it is a change, that could potentially be the most seismic movement in recent times.
That’s because, with Lionel Messi’s contract status still up in the air at Barcelona, the rumours of his stunning departure are only getting louder and with the Argentine now able to talk to foreign clubs, the anticipation of a move is only increasing.
Because this is the month, in which the 33-year-old can announce a pre-transfer to a non-Spanish outfit and the club at the top of the queue right now, is the one that is marshalled by a former manager of Messi.
With Manchester City being overseen by former Barcelona legend Pep Guardiola, there is an obvious connection in place and with the two doing great things for the club, as player and manager a decade or so ago, this could prove to be the ideal swansong for Rosario born superstar.
Not only that, but a move to the Etihad, would finally answer the question that many have been asking for years and that is whether the 2014 World Cup finalist, can genuinely do it in the Premier League?