Report: Barcelona interested in signing Aguero if Messi leaves

With Lionel Messi's future still unresolved, Barcelona are eyeing potential replacements to help rebuild should their integral superstar depart.

One of those options is Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero. The Catalan club is considering a summer move for the Argentine, sources told Mark Ogden of ESPN.

Aguero, who's close friends with Messi, was expected to play a key role in trying to persuade his compatriot to join the Premier League club at the end of the current season; Manchester City have been heavily tipped as a potential destination should Messi finally decide to leave Barcelona.

But Aguero, who's been sidelined by both COVID-19 and injuries for much of the campaign, now seems likely to leave the Premier League leaders when his contract expires in June.

Ten years after leaving Atletico Madrid, he's open to returning to La Liga, Ogden adds.

His looming availability on a free transfer is enticing for Barcelona. They maintain interest in Norwegian phenom Erling Haaland, but their financial constraints - Barca's debt has surpassed €1 billion - will make any opulent moves almost impossible.