Barcelona have prioritised the signing of Lionel Messi this summer, with the Argentine superstar edging closer towards leaving Paris Saint-Germain.
Messi’s contract is due to expire at the end of the season, and PSG are said to be not willing to offer him a new deal.
There is most optimism at Barca camp that they can reunite with their icon regardless of the financial obstacles involved in the operation.
The dressing room has also advocated the return of Messi, who himself is seemingly prepared for his one last dance at his long-time club.
At the same time, Barca are looking at alternatives if they fail to get Messi’s deal over the line.
As reported by Diario AS, Celta Vigo’s young sensation Gabri Veiga has emerged as a potential summer target for the Catalan giants.
Barca president Joan Laporta doesn’t want to miss out on the Spanish prodigy and believes he can be an ideal alternative for Messi.
Veiga, 20, has emerged as one of the hottest prospects in Europe following his eye-catching campaign this term.
Not only their financial struggles but Barca also have a sticking point in the form of Real Madrid, who are said to be leading the race for Veiga.
Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Bayern Munich have already made contact with Veiga, but Madrid are believed to be far ahead after reaching a verbal agreement with Celta.
Los Blancos also have agreed to pay his €40 million release clause in instalments as part of the deal.
As things stand, Barca are waiting for the green light from La Liga over more leeway in the transfer market, though the league persists on the Catalan giants reducing their wage bill to stay within FFP regulations.
