Barcelona VP confirms talks over possible Messi reunion
Barcelona aren't wasting any time in trying to lure Lionel Messi back.
Less than two years after Messi left Camp Nou, Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste revealed Friday that the club has been in contact with the World Cup winner's representatives about a possible reunion after his Paris Saint-Germain contract expires this summer.
"I am still gutted he couldn't continue here," Yuste said, according to Sam Marsden and Moises Llorens of ESPN. "Of course, I would like him to come back because of what he represents on a sporting, social, and economic level.
"We are in contact with (Messi's camp), yes. Beautiful stories should have happy endings, and there is a mutual love between the two parties."
Messi developed into arguably the world's best player during a nearly two-decade spell at Barcelona before his surprise departure in 2021. He holds a number of club records, including the all-time scoring mark with an astounding 672 goals.
Barcelona's inability to afford Messi's contract was one of the primary reasons for his exit.
It's understood Barcelona would need to raise €150 million through transfers or cuts in spending to meet La Liga's financial regulations, which would allow the club to sign players and complete contract extensions, Marsden and Llorens add.
"If all the conditions are met, we are open to the possibility," Yuste added. "(Barca) president (Joan Laporta) has been with Leo's father and there is a good relationship.
"Of course, there is no plan to go on the attack because we don't want PSG to see it like that. If it happens, it will be because destiny takes you back to where you have to go."
Barcelona manager Xavi is hopeful his former teammate decides to come "home" but acknowledged the final decision will be made by the 35-year-old, who hasn't ruled out extending his stay at PSG. He's also been linked with a move to Major League Soccer.
"A lot of conditions have to fall into place for it to happen," Xavi said. "He's won everything in the game and it will depend on his happiness. If he wants to come back, if that's his intention, we will speak about it."