He’s a legend in Barcelona and is the one who can convince Lionel Messi to remain at the club

FC Barcelona has a unique obsession in the transfer market. It's not a player from another team but one of their idols. Lionel Messi is finishing the contract with the club by the end of the current season, and the club's board has only one intention: to renew it and to give the Argentinian for at least one more year. Another legend of the club could show the way.

Joan Laporta is a former president of the club (2003-2010) who now will pursue another spell by entering the elections, scheduled for January 24. But he has strong contenders. One of his opponents is news and telecommunications enterpriser Victor Font.

48-year-old Font has an incredibly special alliance for his campaign. In case he is elected, Barcelona’s legend Xavi Hernández will join him to work in the club. He could become the club’s new General Manager, supported by former player Jordi Cruyff, son of football master Johan Cruyff.

Font has spoken with Spain’s radio show Onda Cero and stated the club will retain Lionel Messi. He was absolutely emphatic: “Our best signing in the transfer market will be Messi. Yes, him, because he will stay with us. I have not spoken to him, but Xavi did, given they have a very good relationship. I’m sure our sporting project will convince him to stay with us”.