Barcelona reportedly are exploring a move to bring in their club legend Lionel Messi ahead of next season. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner announced his exit from Camp Nou once it became clear that Barcelona lacked the resources necessary to renew his contract.

Lionel Messi has spent the last two years with Ligue 1 powerhouse Paris Saint-Germain. However, if rumors are to be believed, he is unlikely to extend his current contract which ends this summer. The World Cup winner will be a free agent and Barcelona apparently are pushing to bring back their prodigal son to his former base using his good relationship with manager Xavi.

However, considering the financial mess Barcelona currently are in, they need to first make a room for the superstar. It is understood that Xavi has suggested the board to sell their academy starlet Ansu Fati whose position on the side has been marred with injuries and inconsistencies.

Overlooked in favor of a front line containing Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, Ousmane Dembele, and Raphinha - Fati is way behind the pecking order. Xavi hence is looking to replace him and Messi apparently tops his list. Fati's departure will also free up the coveted number ’10’ jersey for the PSG star.

Although Barcelona would have to climb mountains to afford Lionel Messi in terms of any financial package. However, the general understanding is that Messi's arrival will boost their marketing aspect and that could ease up any stumbling block.

But apart from Messi, Barcelona reportedly have drawn up other fallback options as well. Liverpool attacker Roberto Firmino who will be a free agent next summer is also one of the options for them.

Yannick Carrasco of Atletico Madrid is reportedly another of Xavi's probable candidates to take Ansu Fati's spot at Camp Nou. Barcelona reportedly have been also in contact with the Belgian who could be a low-cost alternative.

Last but not the least, bringing back the former Barcelona forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is also a possibility. The 33-year-old could also leave Chelsea for free in the summer. The Gabon international spent six fruitful months at Camp Nou and they reportedly will look to bring him in if other options don't work.