Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez has revealed what Lionel Messi told him about his potential return to the Catalan club.
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Rumours continue to link the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner with a return to the Blaugrana, after Paris Saint-Germain boss Christophe Galtier confirmed this weekend's Ligue 1 clash against Clermont Foot would be the forward's final match for the French giants.
It is said Messi's desire is to return to the LaLiga champions as a free agent, although it is believed he has a big-money offer from Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal that expires in two weeks' time.
Speaking in a recent interview about the Argentine, Xavi said the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner has told him he will decide his future next week.
"Messi has the doors open here," he said, according to Mundo Deportivo.
"I know that he will help us if he decides to come, but perhaps we have to leave him alone now. He told me that he will make a decision next week.
"I want him back, 100%. Messi can adapt to many positions. He can play as a winger, he can play as an interior, he can play as a false nine.
"I think we lack some talent in the final third and Leo always gives it to you.
"Leo is also a natural leader, he would adapt perfectly to the circumstances, he has been captain of this club, he has been the best player in history and obviously of this club."
Barcelona are said to be waiting for LaLiga's approval of their financial plans before formalising an offer for Messi, whose camp are believed to be getting impatient with the situation.
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His deal in France, meanwhile, expires at the end of the month.
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