Messi wants Neymar return over Martinez signing at Barcelona

Lionel Messi wants Barcelona to re-sign Neymar over the signing of Inter striker Lautaro Martinez, claims Cadena Ser.

Barcelona originally wanted to sign both Neymar and Martinez this summer as part of an offensive overhaul but can now only afford one due to the financial implications of COVID-19.

Martinez is significantly cheaper due to his £92m release clause and the striker's Inter team-mates are convinced he will move to Camp Nou this summer.

Martinez's agent has also confirmed his client wants to play with fellow Argentine Messi over a switch to other interested clubs like Manchester United.

Neymar has been angling for a move back to Barcelona for the last 12 months despite orchestrating a shock world record £200m transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.

The Brazil international has endured a tough time with injuries since moving to France and is reportedly keen to return to Barcelona to link back up with the likes of Messi and Suarez.

Messi would reportedly also prefer to reunite with Neymar over a transfer for Martinez, having formed one of the best front threes in modern history along the Brazilian and Suarez.

However, getting Neymar back will prove hugely problematic for Barcelona, who do not have the best of relationships with PSG as a result of the initial transfer.

Despite being limited to just 15 league starts this season, Neymar has scored more league goals (13) than Martinez has in 22 league appearances for Inter (11).