BBC Sport revealed that Barcelona officials had a meeting with their City counterparts to discuss the possibility of offloading the Cameroonian ace to Eastlands.

However, Sky Sports News reported on the same day the premiership side, who have been trying to lure a host of high-profile players with astronomical bids, denied making overtures to acquire Eto'o's services.

From his side, City manager Mark Hughes insists the meeting with Barcelona was not held to discuss potential deals.

"The meeting was not about individuals but how both clubs can help each other," he told Key103.

"As a club, we are trying to get relationships with clubs who would not previously have passed the time of day with us."

Barca hitman Eto'o still has 14 months left on his contract with Josep Guardiola's team, and he's yet to comment on the alleged negotiations.

He was once transfer-listed by the Catalans, but he restored his regular spot under the management of Guardiola, who took charge of Barcelona last summer.

The 28-year-old stated in February that he would like to extend his contract with the Primera Liga giants, assuring that he has absolutely no intention of leaving.

"Of course I want to continue, I'm very happy and see no reason to leave," he told TV station Canal Catala.

"I'm going to stay to the end of my contract and if the club want me, I would like to stay longer."