FC Barcelona are reportedly planning to re-sign their all-time leading goalscorer Lionel Messi on a free transfer at the end of the season, provided that he accepts one condition.
Barca have made their stance on the Paris Saint-Germain superstar quite clear, with manager Xavi Hernandez and club president Joan Laporta both having publicly opened the door to the 35-year-old's possible homecoming.
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Reports in France, though, have suggested that the Argentina captain has no interest in discussing or committing his future before the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner will be out of contract at the end of the season, but it is understood PSG have an option to extend the deal by a further year, provided he agrees to do so.
Now, per Spanish outlet Marca, Xavi is hopeful of seeing Messi playing alongside the likes of Pedri, Ansu Fati and Gavi next season, but the move will only happen if the playmaker agrees to take a serious pay cut on what he is currently earning in Paris.
if a deal to sign him in a playing capacity does not come to fruition, the Blaugrana would reportedly also be keen on bringing the forward back as an ambassador or a technical advisor.
Messi's fractured relationship with Laporta is said to have been mended following his abrupt exit from Catalonia last year, and it is believed the pair have been in contact over the phone, although the former's entourage has denied this.
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Barca are also said to feel that the fact that Messi has never ruled out a potential return to Camp Nou, and that he still has his home in Castelldefels, is a positive for them, with the door to the possible homecoming seemingly open from both parties.
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