Barcelona insider: Some part of the board wanted Messi Sold; a historic opportunity

Barcelona's current board are split over the decision not to sell Lionel Messi this summer.

Messi, after demanding a transfer earlier this month, eventually reversed his decision and withdrew his request before the start of the season.

And while president Josep Maria Bartomeu was relieved by the U-turn, there are some inside the club whom believe selling the Argentine superstar would've benefited the club.

One insider told ESPN: "Messi has so much power at the club, both from a financial point of view, but also sporting.

"Now is the time to sell him, this is a historic opportunity to be able to change things.

"There are players who will play better without him in the team..."

Messi's contract with Barca is now inside it's final 12 months.