‘I’ll do the impossible to keep Messi’

Lionel Messi
Barcelona are not in talks with Lionel Messi over a new contract, according to president Sandro Rosell.

Speculation has mounted that the Argentine ace is eager for an improved salary at Camp Nou to match that of summer signing Neymar, despite the player having only signed a new deal until 2018 last year.

Blaugrana vice-president Javier Faus revealed earlier this week that the club have no plans to open negotiations with the 26-year-old at present, and Rosell has now backed up those claims – though he insists there is no chance the attacker could leave the club.

“At the moment, no,” he told reporters when asked if there were discussions over a new deal, before adding, “While I am president, I think it would be extremely difficult for Messi to leave the club, if not impossible.”

The Barcelona board are set to decide in the new year on whether or not to implement plans to redevelop Camp Nou or construct a new stadium, but Rosell was keen to stress he would fully support whatever decision was taken.

“It’ll be a good day when all ideas are presented. I will support whatever the board decides to the death,” he added.

-punch