'Leo belongs to Barcelona': Lewandowski wants Messi link-up

Suraj Radia

• 11 Apr 2023 15:27 BST
• 2 min read

Robert Lewandowski has called on Lionel Messi to return to Barcelona this summer and admitted he hopes to play alongside the Paris Saint-Germain forward next season.

Messi is out of contract with PSG this summer and is rumoured to be ready to move on from the French side after two seasons, having been booed by the club’s supporters in recent weeks.

Barca have openly admitted they would be keen to bring Messi back to the club that he left in 2021 but the Catalan side’s financial struggles means they may not be able to afford his wages.

LEVERS: Barcelona could make controversial move to sign Messi

Messi has also been linked with moves outside of Europe but Lewandowski told reporters that his home was ‘always’ in Barcelona and believes the team ‘needs’ a player like the Argentine.

“Messi will always be part of Barça. If he returns, not only for the fans, but also for the players, it would be incredible,” Lewandowski said.

“His place is here, in Barcelona. I don't know what will happen, I'm not the person to ask, but I hope we can play together next season, we need this type of player, for sure.”

Barca desperate to rescue Messi from PSG nightmare

Messi has enjoyed a successful season, lifting the World Cup with Argentina last year and being named the Best FIFA Mens player of 2022, however he has had to endure the jeers of PSG fans who have questioned his commitment to the club.

The 35-year-old has 14 goals and 14 assists in 25 Ligue 1 games this season but PSG crashed out of the Champions League to Bayern Munich, with Messi failing to make an impact during the tie.

CHANTS: Barcelona fans demand Messi signing

Messi is thought to be open to a return to Barcelona but the club’s financial issues could prevent them from registering his signing with La Liga due to their ballooning wage bill.

The Catalans have been told by La Liga chief Javier Tebas that they need to raise €200 million in player sales before being allowed to make new signings, although Barca are expected to fight hard against any sanctions and will push to sign Messi regardless.