Koeman wants Messi to remain with Barcelona ‘for years’

Barcelona head coach, Ronald Koeman, has renewed his call for Lionel Messi to sign a new contract with his current deal ending in just five months.

Messi’s current deal expires in the summer, with PSG and Manchester City linked with moves for the Argentine.

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Koeman, speaking at a press conference ahead of Barca’s trip to Real Betis, insisted the decision would lie with the player but admitted he hoped Messi would stay put for “many years” yet.

“I think only a person can can speak about their future and Leo is the same.

“As a club and as a coach we would like him to stay for many more years here.

“Leo gives the team a lot of quality and we need him. He improves the morale and the energy of the team but his future is in his hands.”