Lionel Messi has told Barcelona he will remain at the club beyond this season, according to reports in Spain.
The Argentine made moves to leave last summer as he signalled his intent to quit the Nou Camp.
He ended up staying put but with his contract expiring at the end of the season Messi’s future remained up in the air with Manchester City and PSG both touted as possible destinations.
Messi’s father, Jorge, who also acts as his agent, has flown in to Spain to discuss his son’s future with club president Joan Laporta.
They have signalled to Barcelona that the six-time Ballon d’Or intends to remain at the club, reports Spanish broadcaster TVE .
Messi has made it clear to Laporta though that investment needs to be made into the team as he targets more honours.
Barcelona ended last season without a trophy as they went through two managers before appointing Ronald Koeman in the summer.
The Dutchman has introduced several young stars into the first team picture which has led to increased optimism at the Nou Camp.
Koeman won his first trophy at the helm as Barcelona lifted the Copa del Rey earlier this month and Laporta’s return as president was always going to boost Messi’s desire to stay.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
The 33-year-old, who has spent his entire career in Catalunya, wants more quality to arrive this summer though and Erling Haaland has been linked with a Nou Camp move.
The Norwegian’s representatives headed to Spain recently to discuss a possible move with Barcelona and their rivals Real Madrid.
Borussia Dortmund could miss out on the Champions League which may force their hand in the transfer market.
The Catalans are struggling financially however which may hamper any ambitions they have to bring in new faces this summer.
