Barcelona president, Joan Laporta has insisted Lionel Messi wants to stay at the club but financial regulations are preventing them from announcing a new contract.
Messi’s current deal expires at the end of June, but Laporta says the 33-year-old has been convinced to remain at Barca.
“Leo Messi’s boots will continue on the Camp Nou pitch. He wants to stay.
“I do not contemplate a no. It isn’t easy. We’ll do what we can,” Laporta said.
Laporta however said Barca have not been able to confirm an agreement so far, because they must balance the books.
“In economic terms, he has made it very easy, but financial fair play is another battleground.
“We have to follow the rules, we will follow them. There will be more sales and loans. Without paying a transfer fee. We will do a lot of loans, because we have a very high sports payroll compared to other clubs,” he added.
Barcelona president, Laporta gives update on Messi’s future, Guardiola’s return
