Jordi Alba: Leo Messi's mind right now is completely focused on Barça

Barcelona defender Jordi Alba addressed teammate Lionel Messi's future at the club ahead of Tuesday's Champions League tie against Paris Saint-Germain.

The French side are one of the clubs interested in signing Messi if he doesn't extend his contract with Barça beyond the end of its June 30 expiry.

However, despite the noise coming from PSG about signing the game's best player, Alba says Messi is completely focused on helping Barça win trophies this season.

"Even if I did know for sure what Leo was going to do, I wouldn't say openly!" Alba said Monday. "He's already said what his intention is (to wait until the end of the season). Leo will make the decision he has to make but right now he's committed to Barcelona, wants to have a great season and from there I hope we can win a trophy and then Leo will decide ...

"A lack of respect (from PSG)? Honestly, we don't pay attention in the dressing room. Like I have said before, there are a lot of opinions, people talk a lot, but Leo will have the final say when it's time."

Alba is one of the players at the club with the closest relationship with Messi, both on and off the pitch, and would therefore be affected if the Argentine quit Camp Nou this summer.

"I am sure the decision he makes will be well thought over and the best one for him," Alba added. "I am much better when Leo's on the pitch than when he isn't. That's not just me, either, but the same for everyone. We're much better, stronger with Leo.

"I hope he stays for many years but it's a decision for Leo and we must respect whatever he decides. But his mind right now is focused on Barcelona."

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