Messi hatches plan to ruin Man Utd, Chelsea Haaland hopes

Reports claim Lionel Messi is willing to sign a fresh contract on reduced wages as long as Barcelona invest in talented new players.

Messi, 33, will fall out of contract with the Catalans at the end of the season. After seeing his transfer request denied last year, it appeared as though the Argentina superstar would be on his way this summer. But, with Joan Laporta replacing Josep Bartomeu as club president, there is now hope that the forward will stay.

Back in March, Laporta said he was ‘convinced’ Messi would remain at the Nou Camp beyond thus summer. And reports suggest that the legendary South American will lower his demands to facilitate a deal.

Barca’s financial woes have been well publicised and Messi’s current wages of €40m per year are not affordable. And it seems as though he is willing to accept less as long as the club matches his ambitions.

It was thought that manager Ronald Koeman was keen on Lyon’s Memphis Depay. However, Laporta is said to have told Messi that they will soon open dialogue about signing Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland.

Haaland is the hottest prospect in European football at present. Manchester United have been heavily linked, while the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Manchester City are known suitors.

The Norway international will not come cheap but Barca are thought to be willing to pay big bucks.

Messi has been informed that any deal for Haaland means his salary will be reduced, according to Eurosport. But, it appears as though winning trophies is more important to the six-time Ballon d’Or winner than financial reward.

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Continuity key for Messi

PSG are said to have offered Messi deal to move to the Parc des Princes. Without a change of president, he may well have taken the opportunity for a fresh challenge.

But, with Laporta ordering an audit into Barca’s financial situation, the wheels could be in motion for a new contract.

It has been claimed that external funding will be needed to get a deal for Haaland over the line. And Laporta is said to be in discussions with an investment firm to help sign the Scandinavian.

He could be the final piece of the puzzle to ensure that Barcelona’s talisman remains a one-club man for his entire career. He has won everything the game has to offer domestically and could add further silverware this term.

The La Liga giants sit third in the table but are level on 71 points with Real Madrid. Table-topping Atletico Madrid are just two points better off and it is still all to play for.

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