Barcelona ‘want Messi in January transfer’ as Xavi needs star to save season

BARCELONA chiefs will make a desperate attempt to sign Lionel Messi from Paris Saint-Germain in January, according to reports.

Messi, 35, has been linked with a sensational return to the Nou Camp for several months.

Reports initially suggested that he would re-sign for the La Liga giants on a free transfer next summer.

But, following Barcelona’s disastrous 3-0 defeat to Bayern Munich on Wednesday – which subsequently saw the club crash out of the Champions League – Xavi is now eager to reunite with Messi in January.

According to Spanish outlet Sport, Barcelona chiefs are hoping to re-sign Messi as soon as possible.

However, it could prove to be a challenge to separate him from PSG.

The Ligue 1 champions are determined to keep the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner in Paris until his contract expires in June 2023.

Furthermore, Barcelona’s financial issues could potentially prevent the club from securing a deal.

Messi was forced out of the Nou Camp in 2021 because Barcelona could not afford to keep him.

He signed a two-year deal with PSG as a result which is believed to be worth a staggering £700,000-a-week.

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Messi scored 672 goals and assisted 303 during his sensational 17-year spell with Barcelona.

He also helped the club to four Champions League titles, 10 La Liga titles and three Club World Cups.