Lionel Messi told Barcelona he would only sign a new contract if they signed Sadio Mane
Lionel Messi told Barcelona he would only sign a new contract if they sign Liverpool’s Sadio Mane, the new Bayern Munich star’s agent claims, as he lifts the lid on last year’s negotiations – before superstar joined PSG
- Lionel Messi was negotiating a new contract with Barcelona last year
- Argentine wanted Barcelona to sign Sadio Mane before eventually moving to PSG . left
- Mane has since joined German champions Bayern Munich and has left Liverpool
Lionel Messi demanded that Barcelona sign Sadio Mane before finally deciding to leave for PSG, the latter’s agent said.
When his contract with Barca expired last year, Messi entered into negotiations with the club before moving to France for a stunning deal over LaLiga’s financial problems.
The signing of Mane, who was playing for Liverpool at the time, was one of Messi’s demands as he negotiated the new deal.
Lionel Messi (right) demanded Barcelona sign Sadio Mane, who was then with Liverpool
That’s according to Mane’s agent, Bacary Cisse, who told: RMC Sports: ‘Last year it could have happened with FC Barcelona.
“It was Lionel Messi who forced Sadio Mane into the deal when it came to going to Barca. He had given two names: Sadio Mane and an Argentine central defender.’
Cisse also revealed that PSG were interested in signing Mane this summer, but a potential transfer ended due to the departure of club chief Leonardo.
Yes, PSG did indeed ‘attack’ Sadio. Leonardo had several contacts with the German agent. They saw each other, they discussed the ins and outs of a possible transfer from Sadio to PSG, but that’s where it ended,” he said.
Lionel Messi left Barcelona last summer with a stunning transfer to Paris Saint-Germain
Mane left Liverpool this summer to join Bayern Munich after spending six years with the Reds
“Everyone knows Leonardo was in an ejection seat – we had to wait.”
Messi previously showed his admiration for Mane after voting for him to win the FIFA Best Award three years ago.
The Senegal international finished fourth and Messi said: “It’s a shame to see Mane finish fourth. But I think there have been a lot of great players this year. Therefore, it was difficult to choose a particular player.
“But I chose Sadio Mane (for the best prize) because he is a player I like. Mane has had a great year which has been exceptional for the entire Liverpool team. That’s why I chose him.’
