Xavi: Barcelona keen on Lionel Messi reunion, but it's up to him

Xavi has revealed that Barcelona's eagerly awaited reunion with Lionel Messi hinges solely on the Argentine's approval.

Following the strict financial limitations imposed by La Liga, Barcelona was unable to register Messi's contract in 2021, resulting in his departure after nearly two decades at the club.

The talented forward subsequently joined PSG on a free transfer, but his time at Parc des Princes has not gone as anticipated.

Despite PSG winning consecutive Ligue 1 titles, their underwhelming performances in the Champions League have left Messi eager to depart after just two years in the French capital.

According to reliable sources, Barcelona remain confident in reaching an agreement with La Liga to facilitate Messi's comeback to Catalonia.

However, they face stiff competition from Al Hilal, a Saudi Pro League team that are prepared to offer Messi a contract making him the highest-paid footballer in history.

Reports from France suggest that Al Hilal's offer could exceed €1 billion, while there are also rumors of Barcelona's interest in involving Inter Miami to facilitate Messi's return by signing him and then loaning him back to La Blaugrana.

Nevertheless, Xavi has emphasised that Barcelona have everything in place for the deal, and they are only awaiting Messi's contract signature to finalise the much-anticipated reunion at Camp Nou.

"Our fans started to mention Leo Messi's name at every game... I like the feeling. But trust me, the comeback of Leo Messi only depends on him," Xavi told Catalan outlet TV3.

"I'd say that it depends 99% on Messi. I have no doubts on football point of view - it's up to Leo."