Spain: Barça will do « everything possible » to bring back Messi, assures Laporta
« I spoke to Leo to redirect a situation that occurred, where I had to put the institution before everything, even him, who is the best player in the world, » Laporta told the TV channel. Catalan regional public TV3. « The truth is that it was a very affectionate conversation, very pleasant, and that we have also been sending messages to each other lately, » added the Catalan president, assuring that « there is a relationship » with the player.
Laporta told Jijantes earlier on Monday that « we will do everything possible » to bring the Argentine No.10 back to Barca, but he was more cautious on TV3. « He is a Paris Saint-Germain player and what we will do is improve the team in all areas, we have already worked on that, » he explained, avoiding talking about possible financial concessions Messi would have to make to return to Barca.
Laporta recalled that « the club is on an austerity plan ». FC Barcelona, which is still awaiting the approval of a viability plan by the Spanish Football League, must save 200 million euros on its wage bill to be allowed to recruit this summer.
At the end of the contract with PSG, Messi would have received a salary offer of 500 million euros per year from the Saudi club Al-Hilal.
« With all due respect to Saudi Arabia, Barca are Barca, and this is their home, » Laporta said, adding he was convinced « we can compete with everyone » to lure the Argentine star almost 36 years old.
