Barcelona target 'holy trinity' of free signings that includes Lionel Messi

Barcelona are targeting a 'holy trinity' of free transfer signings this summer including the return of Lionel Messi, according to a new report.

Xavi's side secured their first La Liga title since 2019 earlier this month by winning 4-2 at fierce rivals Espanyol.

The triumph has been built on a solid defence, with Barcelona's 18 goals conceded this season the lowest of any team in Europe's top five leagues.

In attack, Robert Lewandowski's 23 goals is set to win him the La Liga Golden Boot award in his first season at Camp Nou.

Next season will herald in what is effectively a new era at Barca, with club legends Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets both departing on free transfers. Fellow Barca icon Gerard Pique retired earlier in the season.

But whilst some things will change, others could stay very much the same - and that's where Messi comes in.

Barcelona target three free signings

According to the Daily Mail, Barca are making the return of the Argentinian a priority this summer.

The 35-year-old is set to leave PSG at the end of the season, having spent two seasons in the French capital.

Speaking to Spanish outlet Jijantes, Barca president Joan Laporta said the club would do 'anything' to bring Messi back to Camp Nou.

However, the club's financial issues are still prevalent - resulting in the decision to pursue free transfers.

And the Mail claim that, as well as Messi, Barca are also interested in signing Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan.

The German midfielder's contract at the Etihad Stadium expires this summer, and he has also attracted interest from Arsenal.

The third name on the shortlist is Athletic Bilbao centre-back Inigo Martinez. Fabrizio Romano has claimed that the 31-year-old has already agreed a two-year deal with Barcelona, but that the club are yet to receive approval from La Liga in order to register him.