Good News For Barca Fans, Joan Laporta Claims Messi's Contract Renewal Process Is Running Smoothly
JAKARTA - Barcelona president Joan Laporta gave an update on Lionel Messi's new contract journey and he said that the current process of talks was proceeding smoothly.
Barcelona to date has been unable to strike a deal because they have no space in the salary cap, meaning that costs need to be cut by delaying the sale.
Barcelona is still working to clear space in the salary cap that would allow Messi to be tied down to a new contract.
Currently, Messi, who has just won the Copa America trophy with the Argentina national team, is on a free transfer after his contract expired on June 30.
The Copa America trophy is Messi's first title with the Argentine senior team, as well as the country's first title since 1993.
When asked about the news of Messi's new contract talks at a presentation at the Mago Po event, Laporta said "nothing is impossible".
"(Messi's contract renewal) went smoothly", Laporta told reporters, as quoted by Antara on Tuesday, July 13.
"All Catalans, Barcelona, Catalunya, and the whole world of football are happy that Leo won the Copa America".
"It's great to see the best player in the history of football excited to win a title like this and he made us all cry with joy".
"He is very happy, we are all happy. I am happy that Leo did (winning the Copa America) with his teammates, and that Argentina is once again an elite team, and (I am) happy for (Sergio) Aguero too".
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"I'm happy for the Messi family, for Argentina, for Barcelona who is recognized, admired, and loved for having a bond with Leo".
Laporta has stated several times that he believes Barcelona can agree on a contract extension with Messi.
The player nicknamed 'La Pulga' has spent his entire senior career with the Blaugrana and has not indicated that he will leave Camp Nou.