Barcelona president Bartomeu's Interview
Barcelona president discussed Messi's recent contract renewal and transfer plans with SPORT.
Leo Messi's new contract
Messi's contract renewal was expected news. An era began in football in 2008 when Pep Guardiola took charge and it will continue. It's an era of success, with Messi as the leader and with us for another four years we remain optimistic.
Did I pay Messi a bonus for his new deal? That's a normal thing. I won't explain the details of the contract, but it's true that when certain players renew, depending on their importance, they get a renewal bonus.
Did Messi ask me to build a competitive team?
It's an urban myth that players ask for managers or players. It's a lie. It's also normal that he didn't invite me to his wedding. He invited friends of his age and they had a great time. Yes, I would have liked to attend, but the wedding was in Argentina, in Rosario. The directors aren't friends with the players. Each person has their role and it shouldn't be mixed. I'm in a tie, the players are in shirts.
MSN-trio all renewed
They're star players, players that everyone wants. Obviously they have calls from half the world and that we've tied them down until 2021 is something to be happy about. It doesn't mean we will win titles, but it guarantees we'll have a good time.
Why do you think signing Verratti is mission impossible?
Verratti is a player we like.Robert [Fernandez] wants him to come, as do [Ernesto] Valverde and Pep] Segura. And we know that the player wants to come to Barca. The problem is that PSG have now told us they don’t want to negotiate. The fact there is no release clause is a problem because you can’t go there and sign a player. For that reason, if the club don’t want to sell, as is the case here: ‘we don’t want to sell, we don’t want to sit down with you, we will talk about whatever you want, but not about Verratti.
So, Plan B?
Robert and Valverde are now thinking about other [options]. As of today, it’s been impossible, but the market is open until August 31.
Any signings?
I can’t guarantee a star signing. I can't guarantee anything because it depends on the market and how negotiations go. Still, two or three players will come, one will be promoted from Barca B and things continue to happen. The tour will be an important moment. All the players will go, as will some from Barca B and Valverde will choose who stay, who doesn't and who we loan.
