Barcelona candidate Laporta: I want Messi to be with us for new stadium launch | OneFootball

Barcelona presidential candidate Joan Laporta has again declared he wants to keep hold of Lionel Messi.

Messi is off contract in June and Laporta, who is going for his second spell as president, insists he's the club's best option of convincing the captain to sign a new contract.

He told Goal: "I hope Leo will still be there when we celebrate the 125th anniversary of Barcelona.

"It is not an easy task, because the renovation of the stadium will take at least two years.

"The whole thing around Messi is easier than the stadium. However, it would be great if we could celebrate Barcelona's 125th birthday together with Messi. That would be a fantastic end to his career."

The presidential candidate believes he is the right man to convince Messi to stay longer.

"Because I speak the truth. I have the most experience and ambition and in Messi's eyes I am the most credible presidential candidate. I am proud that Lionel says all the promises I made to him have come true."

Barca celebrate their 125th anniversary in 2024.