‘Operation Messi’ moving fast with Barcelona dressing room approving transfer

Barcelona have accelerated their efforts to re-sign Lionel Messi from Paris Saint-Germain.

Messi’s contract at the Parc des Princes expires this summer, and PSG are open to parting ways with him to balance the books.

Barca have prioritised the return of Messi and are exploring every avenue to make it happen.

According to Spanish journalist Alex Pintanel, Barca are progressing quickly in their pursuit of Messi, with key members of the hierarchy and dressing room endorsing the move.

The 35-year-old recently travelled to Barcelona for a short holiday and was spotted having dinner with some of his ex-teammates, which has fuelled the speculation.

Barca are planning for a mini clearout this summer to ease their financial crisis and trim their bloated wage bill.

Ferran Torres, Franck Kessie, Ansu Fati and Eric Garcia are reportedly on the sale list after being deemed surplus to requirements.

Manager Xavi is pushing for the return of Messi, with whom he shares an excellent relationship. He wants the Argentine to be the leader of his project next season.

Messi had a lacklustre campaign with PSG last season but has returned to his phenomenal best this term, bagging 20 goals and 19 assists in all competitions.

He also steered La Albiceleste to World Cup glory, beating Kylian Mbappe-inspired France in the final.

Barca also want to sign Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan and Athletic Bilbao defender Inigo Martinez on free transfers.