Barcelona expect €230 million in annual boost with Messi’s signing – report

Barcelona are rubbing their hands for both sporting and economic reasons over the signing of Lionel Messi ahead of the summer transfer window. The Argentine becomes a free agent in the summer, and is set to leave PSG as a free agent.

Barcelona are his likely destination, with the player hoping to play in Europe for another season, at least, before venturing elsewhere.

Signing him, however, will not be easy, as Barcelona are in dire financial trouble. While he will sign on a Bosman move, with a lower salary than his current deal, they still have not received the green light from La Liga about their feasibility plan.

Barcelona, curious about the financial boost Messi could bring, analysed the financial impact it would have, according to David Bernabeu Reverter (h/t Barça Center).

The conclusions surprised Barcelona’s board members despite their high expectations. Through the study, they found out that Messi’s return could translate into €230 million in annual revenue just from the player’s end.

Barcelona’s players are more than aware about the rumours circling the club about Messi’s return. Several of them have already commented on it, with Lewandowski being the most recent one to open up about it.

“I want to play with Messi here in Barcelona. He has changed his style in recent years. It is easier to play with players who understand football as deeply as he does.”

“Messi’s playing style has evolved in recent years. He thinks differently, and positions himself differently on the pitch. He has a unique sense. We would definitely use it. Where will I put it on the pitch? You’ll have to ask Xavi about that,” he added.

Once La Liga approve Barcelona’s feasibility plan, the club want to prioritise Alejandro Balde, while registering contracts of Ronald Araujo and Gavi. This will be followed by focusing on Messi’s contract.