Lionel Messi wanted the signing of fellow countryman, Lautaro Martinez, but Boss Quique Setien believes the signing will not happen.
Quique Setien knows that despite Messi’s interest, Barcelona will find it very difficult to sign the Argentine international due to their financial constraints. The club has struggled economically since last year which was clear during the winter transfer market as the side comically announced Ousmane Dembele as their new signing.
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The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has only made matters worse for the Catalans and despite president, Josep Maria Bartomeu‘s, intentions of securing a number of players in the next transfer market, a clear lack of funds will disrupt this target.
The Spanish side remains keen on signing Lautaro and have put forward their own players to do so with Ivan Rakitic being Inter’s favorite. The Croatian international has been linked with a move away from the Nou Camp long before Inter’s interest and with the Italian side’s likeness for the 32-year-old, makes him the ideal player to exchange.
Rakitic, however, does not want to leave Camp Nou this summer with hopes of seeing his existing contract out, which ends next year.
"“I am used to it. I have been in Barcelona for six years and I have listened to all of them. I always try to remember that football is not just a sport but a little more and sometimes it is Better to laugh at that [rumours]. The most important thing is that I get along well with the coach and the club. I still have a contract [until 2021] and when I signed I always intend to honor it until the end. ” Rakitic saidSource Don Balon"
With the deal awaiting Rakitic’s approval, Barca are preparing to look elsewhere for a long term heir to aging Luis Suarez, who would not only be a valuable addition to the squad but also come for cheap.
Should Barca continue their interest in signing Lautaro?