Messi’s current deal with Barcelona is due to close in just a couple of weeks, but Laporta stressed that the club is eager to close a deal with their captain soon.
The negotiations are going well between Messi and Barca
Joan Laporta has confirmed that no agreement has been reached between Barcelona and Lionel Messi on a possible extension of the contract but stressed that the Argentine is almost sure to stay with the Blaugrana. Messi’s current deal with Barcelona is due to close in just a couple of weeks, but Laporta stressed that the club is eager to close a deal with their captain soon. “I would like to say that Messi’s contract renewal has already been done, but it is not,” Laporta said. “The negotiations are going well, but it has not been done. The idea is to reach an agreement as soon as possible. It is convenient for him and also for us because if we solve this matter, others will be resolved faster.”
Sergio Aguero reminds Leo every day at the Copa America that he has to sign
“We are confident because he wants to stay. We are doing our best to offer him a competitive team. We have signed Sergio Aguero, who reminds him every day at the Copa America that he has to sign so they can play together.” Laporta explained that Messi has agreed to stay at Barcelona if the new board is satisfied that they meet his demands, which are anything but financial. “I’m not contemplating getting a no as an answer,” added Laporta. “I am optimistic. He wants to stay, and we are doing everything we can. It’s not easy. He is still the best in the world, and other clubs want him with more financial potential. We compete against state clubs that can undermine transfers that we are trying to carry out. It’s not fair.”
“We live in a difficult time when it is not enough to propose and reach an agreement. Now everything has to come together. And this takes patience.” Laporta also revealed what specific dates would be ideal for him to announce Messi’s contract renewal officially. “We act with skill and ability to convince him,” Laporta said. “There is no need to seduce him because he chose to stay if certain circumstances arise. He is having a good time here. There is no date for an agreement. I would like it to be June 24, my saint’s day and the birthday of Leo. Or else June 29, which is my birthday. It would be a nice gift.”