LIONEL MESSI’S future has split Barcelona’s board, with some reportedly ready to offload the frustrated icon to fund a squad revamp.
The one-club frontman is said to have told new boss Ronald Koeman in showdown talks he is more inclined to leave than stay.
Lionel Messi is said to be thinking more of going than staying, and some Barcelona board members are reportedly fine with thatCredit: AP:Associated Press
And ESPN claim the 33-year-old’s uncertainty has sparked a huge debate at board level.
They say some board members admitted to them they are prepared to sell the Argentina maestro.
If he does leave, Manchester City have been rated Messi’s likeliest destination, followed by Inter Milan.
His rumbling discontent with Barca bigwigs peaked after last week’s 8-2 Champions League humbling by Bayern Munich.
New manager Ronald Koeman has held talks with Lionel Messi but the star man’s future remains uncertainCredit: AFP OR LICENSORS
He earlier fell out with ex-Nou Camp Sporting Director Eric Abidal and criticised the board over over wage negotiations due to the coronavirus pandemic.
But having surrendered the LaLiga title to resurgent Real Madrid, Barcelona’s more intense humiliation against Bayern focused Messi’s discontent.
Fellow 30-something legends like Luis Suarez, Gerard Pique and Sergio Busquets are among the big names now facing summer exits.
And with just one year left on Messi’s contract, ESPN even say Barca chiefs are “relaxed” about the uncertainty over his future.
Juventus’ Argentina striker Paulo Dybala has been touted as Barcelona’s potential top choice if Messi departs.
But reports in Italy suggest Manchester clubs United and City are also monitoring the situation as the 26-year-old continues contract talks with the Italian champions.
Barcelona star Luis Suarez returns to training after injury
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
