Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi has hailed Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola as "special" amid speculation regarding his next career move.

Man City are one of the few sides thought to possess the financial muscle to pull off a move for Messi, who is expected to leave Barcelona when his deal expires in the summer.

A reunion with Guardiola could supposedly tempt the six-time Ballon d'Or winner into making the switch to the Etihad, and Messi has added fuel to the fire by lavishing praise on his former manager.

Speaking to La Sexta, the 33-year-old said: "Pep has something special. He makes you see things in a wonderful way, how he prepares for games, how to defend, and how to attack.

"I was lucky to train under Guardiola and Luis Enrique, the two best. Having them made me grow a lot physically and mentally, and also the tactical wisdom they've taught me."

Paris Saint-Germain have been tipped to rival Man City for Messi's signature, with Mauricio Pochettino - reportedly close to becoming PSG's new manager - said to be hopeful of striking a deal for the talisman in order to reunite him with Neymar.