Football
The president of Barcelona spoke about his immediate plans. There was also talk of Messi
Barcelona president Joan Laporta revealed the options Barcelona is considering to a leading Catalan radio station on Monday. A number of star names were mentioned.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta revealed the options Barcelona is considering to a leading Catalan radio station on Monday. A number of star names were mentioned.
Most of all, of course, Barcelona fans are wondering if the possibility of Lionel Messi returning to his footballing home is in play. After all, he hasn’t been doing too well after his transfer to the Parisian big club and remains far below their standards and expectations.
Not even 10 league assists, which puts him in the top spot of passers, can mask the discomfort. However, it doesn’t look like a comeback anytime soon. “We have not received any news from Messi or his agents that there is a possibility of a return. The reality is that we are not considering this option,” Laporta disappointed the Catalan club’s supporters in an interview.
There was also talk of other options to boost the attack. When asked if it is possible to bring Kylian Mbappé or Erling Haaland, the Barcelona president replied that such a deal is really far from happening. The Catalan big club, he says, would never spend such huge sums of money.
He also talked about other possibilities. “Lewandowski? Salah? It’s clear that the best players in the world want to play for Barcelona, but at this moment I can’t reveal if we are in contact or not,” Laporta answered evasively when asked.
He also mentioned that the club is sympathetic to the idea of bringing in João Felix from Atlético Madrid. However, earlier agreements have fallen through.
Not to discuss only the attack, the topic was of course also the midfield and defence. Laporta definitely confirmed reinforcements in the form of Franck Kessié from AC Milan and Andreas Christensen, who should reinforce the gaps in the defence. Both players are 25 years old.
The Barcelona president also said he would not be opposed to the arrival of Raphinha: “He is a player I really admire. His agent is Deco and I have a good relationship with him.”
He also confirmed that the management is very happy with the arrival of Adama Traore and further outlined that negotiations are underway for new contracts with midfielder Gavi and defender Ronald Araujo. Barcelona also have a positive attitude towards winger Ousmane Dembélé, but he must accept the salary cap if he wants to stay.
Barcelona now sit 3rd in the La Liga table and are 12 points behind first-placed Real Madrid. But the Catalans have one game less than their age-old rival. Sevilla are sandwiched between the two giants.
After their victory over Galatasaray of Turkey, Barcelona advanced to the Europa League quarterfinals where they will face Frankfurt.
Under the leadership of coach Xavi, the Catalan team has a streak of 12 matches without defeat. In the last match Barcelona won against Real Madrid 4: 0.
Source: Rac1