The modern-day legend’s future has become a subject of intense speculations lately as he approaches the end of his contract at Camp Nou.
Lionel Messi sent shivers down the spines of the FC Barcelona faithful by handing in a transfer request back in August.
Affectionate sentiments towards his childhood club then prompted him to make a U-turn on the decision, but the idea of an exit did not go extinct from the mind of the six-time Ballon d’Or winner.
The Barca captain’s current contract, as it stands, will drop to free agency at the end of this season.
Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with his signing, with the player supposedly resolute about putting an end to his 19-year-long association with the La Liga giants.
A reunion with Pep Guardiola – a manager who helped him to unparalleled success – could be of interest to Messi while reconciliation with former and arguably his best strike partner Neymar could be tempting for him.
Amid all the transfer talks, a man who is looking to succeed Josep Maria Bartomeu has provided Barca fans with some hope.
Joan Laporta assures that he is aware of what should be done to change the living legend’s mind about quitting and that Messi will stay put if he wins the presidential election.
“You have to be imaginative,” Laporta told Sport, via Goal. “Knowing Messi is not guided by money, and I assure you that is the case, we must make a proposal that can convince him Barca has a team capable of winning the Champions League.
“That is essential. It is what will be more valuable to Leo when deciding his future at the end of the season. I am convinced of that.
“You have to wonder how Messi is to not be at the club he loves the most. If I am named president then Messi will renew at the end of the season.”
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