Chances of Lionel Messi returning to Barcelona at 60% right now – Romero

One of the most reliable Barcelona journalists in the business, Gerard Romero, has claimed that as of today, there is a 60% chance of Lionel Messi returning to the Catalan capital.

The Argentine is set to become a free agent in the summer, and was reportedly in negotiations with PSG to extend his deal for another two years. However, recent rumours have claimed that Leo is not leaning towards signing an extension now.

Apart from Barcelona, the likes of Inter Miami and Saudi Arabian giants Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal have also been interested in signing Messi. Fortunately for football fans, though, it seems the World Cup winner is not ready to move out of Europe just yet.

Further, it was reported that Barcelona’s offer to Leo, if it happens, will depend on three crucial factors.

Firstly, they will have to figure out their salary cap for the next season. The board will try to offload the players that are surplus to requirements right now, while bringing in players to reinforce several other areas of the pitch.

Secondly, Barcelona will try to bring in new sponsorships and commercial revenue during the off-season to raise money apart from player sales. This could go a long way in sending a convincing offer to Messi in the summer.

Finally, the conviction of the current Barcelona board will play a huge role. While Joan Laporta has been rather open about his desire to bring Messi back to the club, his relationship with the player is rather poor right now.

While Romero has claimed that there is still a 60% chance of Leo returning to the Camp Nou, the truth is, this transfer will not be treated as a priority.

Barcelona have to reinforce other positions in the team as a priority, like bringing in a new right-back, a backup striker, a left-winger, and possibly a left-footed centre-back. Fixing these gaping holes will take up most of their transfer budget, leaving little to no room for Leo.

That said, there is still a fair few months remaining before the window opens, and until then, the pendulum could swing in anyone’s favour.