Lionel Messi wants to receive more salary than Barcelona superstar if he is to reject Saudi proposal and return to Camp Nou: Reports

Lionel Messi has a yearning for Barcelona, according to recent reports. The 35-year-old wants to return to Camp Nou, his old stomping ground, but he has fired a warning shot at the club president Joan Laporta. La Pulga's homecoming, it seems, comes with a catalogue of stern conditions, according to El Nacional.

The Argentine wizard is said to be teetering on the brink of rebuffing an astronomical offer from the Saudi Arabian club, Al-Hilal. The Saudi proposal promises Messi a whopping €300 million per season, making him the highest-paid footballer globally. However, his sights are set on Barca, for which he harbors a particular affection.

However, Messi's return to Barcelona isn't just a flight of fancy. It is shrouded in practical considerations. The current Paris Saint-Germain talisman has demanded a competitive football project that assures him a chance at winning titles. According to El Nacional, he doesn't mince words when he insists on being the linchpin of any team he plays for.

Messi's potential second stint at La Liga Santander is hinged on the expectations of him remaining the offensive spearhead, the beating heart of the club, and the proud owner of the iconic number '10'. This coveted number, once Messi's, is now held by Anssumane Fati.

The financial aspect of the deal also comes under scrutiny. Messi won't be content playing for peanuts. While he is prepared for some financial compromises, he won't be lacing up his boots for a low wage, contrary to speculation. Furthermore, he insists that his remuneration should reflect his stature in the dressing room, that is, the highest-paid player.

According to El Nacional, Messi has made it crystal clear that he won't stand any teammate earning more than him. This particular condition has a direct bearing on Robert Lewandowski, who currently bags €10 million net per year, a figure set to increase to €16 million by 2024.

Lionel Messi isn't one for playing second fiddle. He is demanding a payday that surpasses Lewandowski's earnings, insisting on a minimum of €17 million from day one.

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Lionel Messi's father isn't too keen on a Barcelona return

Lionel Messi's father Jorge [left] with the rest of his family

The Argentine star will soon become a free agent, as his contract with the French powerhouse is set to expire on June 30. But as Barcelona gear up for a potential reunion with their legend, a wrinkle appears to be surfacing on an unexpected quarter - Jorge Messi.

Gerard Romero, a respected Spanish journalist, disclosed that Jorge, Lionel's father, has expressed concern over the Spanish tax authorities (via PSG Talk). Although the report doesn't specify whether the concern is about their finances, Messi's past interactions with teammates embroiled in tax issues could be influencing the apprehension.

Neymar Jr. notably found himself mired in a €34.6 million tax debt for the period from 2013 to 2017. The pressing question is whether these tax concerns could play a significant role in Messi's decision to return to Barcelona.

It remains to be seen how Lionel Messi's camp might handle any potential tax issues that could crop up with the Spanish authorities.