‘Lionel Messi would love to return’ – Barcelona reunion rumours addressed by Argentine’s father after Joan Laporta talks

• Argentine superstar hitting free agency
• Talks held regarding return to Camp Nou
• Liga giants in a position to sign players

WHAT HAPPENED? The World Cup-winning Argentina international is seeing the subject of his future dominate headlines across the globe, with free agency about to be hit at Paris Saint-Germain. Lucrative offers are said to be on the table from MLS and the Middle East, with the 35-year-old in a position where he could become the highest-paid player on the planet, but an emotional retracing of steps to Camp Nou is also being discussed. Jorge Messi has met with Barca president Laporta, after seeing the Blaugrana cleared by La Liga to sign players again, and he admits that a deal may be on the cards.

WHAT THEY SAID: Jorge Messi told JijantesFC when asked if his son could be back in Catalunya for the 2023-24 campaign: “Messi would love to return.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Messi senior stated his optimism regarding an agreement with Barca, who have had to overcome serious financial difficulties in order to consider a deal. Positive talks were seemingly held with Laporta on Monday – who has never hidden the fact that he would like to welcome the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner back to Camp Nou.

IN TWO PHOTOS:

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WHAT NEXT? Barcelona boss Xavi, who is a former team-mate of Messi, has been leaving the door open for a stunning addition to be made to his squad. He has said when quizzed on the Messi rumours: “It depends on him. If he wants to come to Barca, we will do everything necessary so that he can come. I think the conditions are right. Football-wise I think he could still help us a lot. But it depends on him 99 per cent.”