Barcelona are reportedly set to prioritise a move for Borussia Dortmund forward Erling Braut Haaland over a new deal for Lionel Messi.
There has been growing optimism that Messi will extend his stay in Catalonia beyond the summer, but as things stand, he will be able to leave as a free agent when his Barca contract expires next month.
Meanwhile, Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke expects Haaland to remain with Dortmund for the 2021-22 season, but the prolific Norwegian is still expected to be at the centre of a mass bidding war this summer.
According to The Sun, Barcelona president Joan Laporta wants to go all out to secure Haaland's signature, and talks over a renewal for Messi will take a backseat as La Blaugrana press ahead with a move.
The report claims Barca could spread the cost of a nine-figure sum for Haaland over five years, although the Blaugrana's mammoth debt could still hinder a deal for the 20-year-old.
Barcelona could supposedly be willing to do away with up to 14 players as they seek to raise funds for Haaland, who has struck 39 goals in 39 games across all competitions this term.
Ben Knapton
