Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed that Lionel Messi's contract talks are "progressing".

The newly elected Nou Camp supremo declared recently that he would do everything possible to keep hold of the Argentine.

Messi attempted to quit the Catalans last summer and rumours have persisted that he could secure an exit come the end of the season.

The 33-year-old will be out of contract, but Barcelona remain hopeful that they can convince him to stay.

Many of Messi's gripes with the club centred around the old hierarchy - with Laporta now returning there is a feeling that he could stay put.

Joan Laporta has vowed to try and keep Lionel Messi (
Image:
AFP via Getty Images)

The Barcelona chief believes their star man is "motivated" and has backed him to remain at the club.

Laporta told Deportes Cuatro : "Everything is progressing adequately.

"I will do everything within the club's capabilities to get him to stay. That's what we're doing. Messi is motivated.

"He is an extraordinary person and I am convinced that he will want to continue at Barca."

The club's huge debts have also put the deal in doubt with Messi's salary worth a reported £123m.

The Argentine's contract expires at the end of the season (
Image:
Getty Images)

This term he has scored 23 goals in 28 matches for a Barcelona side that are in the midst of a transitional phase under Ronald Koeman.

The Spanish giants have begun introducing their latest crop of youngsters into the first team but could still win La Liga and the Copa del Rey.

European heavyweights Manchester City and PSG have both continued to track Messi's situation as they consider summer moves.

There are two of only a few clubs whose financial power puts them in a position to sign the six-time Ballon d'Or winner.

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