Jordi Cruyff convinced Messi closer to committing to Barcelona future: My plans? | OneFootball

Former Barcelona striker Jordi Cruyff believes Lionel Messi is leaning towards signing a new contract and staying.

Messi is off contract in June and has yet to consider opening negotiations about a new deal. However, after Joan Laporta won Sunday's presidential election, there is hope of the Argentine being persuaded to stay. The appearance of Messi and his son at a Barcelona voting booth has bouyed those connected to the Laporta ticket that their club captain remains committed to the Blaugrana cause. And that opinion is shared by Jordi.

Currently coach of Shenzen FC, Jordi is being linked with a return to Barca as part of Laporta's front office.

He told El Larguero via Le 10 Sport: "If Messi will extend under Laporta? Only Messi can answer this question.

"But the photo of the other day of playing with his son and the joy he showed when he celebrated the comeback against Sevilla… It comes from within."

The son of Dutch and Barca great Johan Cruyff, Jordi came through the La Masia system at Barca before being snapped up by Manchester United. With the Catalans, Jordi played 53 games, mainly as a striker, scoring 11 times.

The now Shenzen FC coach also addressed the rumours about joining Laporta's management team.

Jordi revealed: “I will not be traveling to Barcelona on Wednesday. For the moment, I have not been contacted by Barça and whatever happens in the future will always be with the agreement of the Shenzhen Kaisa Group."

- updated March 10