Lionel Messi’s off-field influence at Barcelona looks to be growing by the day as it emerge he has a huge say on in-coming and outgoing players.
The Argentine reportedly stopped Barcelona from pursuing a deal for Mesut Ozil, claiming that the Arsenal midfielder was too old and they should go for Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho instead.
He has also been accused of dictating the club’s transfer dealings silently after he recommended that they sign Real Sociedad’s Mikel Oryazabal to become deputy to their current number one.
Now Spanish outlet Dario Gol is claiming that Messi has asked both the club’s president and coach Enersto Valverde to allow Sergi Roberto remain in Nou Camp.
Roberto has been attracting the interest of several top sides this season, but Messi thinks his versatility makes him indispensable to them.
Roberto has enjoyed much match action in his Barcelona career, thanks in part to his versatility. His winning goal against PSG in the Champions League last season endeared him to the club’s faithful and many would be disappointed to see him leave.
The most bizarre twist to his transfer is the reports that arch rivals, Real Madrid are also keen to add him to their.
But the Spain international has said he is content at the Catalan club and sees no reason to move.
