Barcelona shortlist a sensational replacement for Leo Messi
It is only a matter of time before a conclusion is drawn over Lionel Messi’s future at Barcelona. The captain has decided against attending training and the PCR tests to push a move forward out of the club, however, the board remains strict to their release clause policy.
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The offer that stands on the table for Messi’s future is either pay 700 million euros or leave it. It is highly unlikely that any club in the world could afford to splurge such a huge amount this summer after the impact that COVID-19 has had.
Nonetheless, Manchester City remains as favourites to land Leo Messi this summer. If the English side manages to sign Messi for 700 million euros, then the Catalans would have the purchasing power to conduct a proper squad revamp.
The replacement for Messi, according to Spanish outlets
Diaro GOL reports that Barca has shortlisted Real Madrid’s long term target, Kylian Mbappe. Barca believes that Mbappe would be the ideal replacement for Messi given his goal-scoring ability. The front three of the club could possibly be Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Griezmann, and Kylian Mbappe forming a French connection upfront.
It is rumoured that the American sports brand Nike will also play an important role in the possible transfer. Mbappe is Nike’s brand ambassador and is the one for the future when Cristiano Ronaldo retires. Since Barca is sponsored by Nike, the sports brand would prefer to push a move forward that would see their star ambassador join forces with Barca.
Real Madrid has made Kylian Mbappe their priority for the summer of 2021, however, if Barca manage to sell Messi for the rumoured price then the Catalans could seriously upset Madrid this summer.