Transfer Centre

Marco Verratti issues ultimatum to Paris Saint-Germain

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 24 June 2017

Rumoured Barcelona target Marco Verratti admits that the only way he will be persuaded to remain at Paris Saint-Germain is if they bring in big-name players this summer.

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti has told the club to spend big this summer and build a dynasty if they are to tempt him into staying.

The 24-year-old, who remains under contract at the Parc des Princes until 2021, recently informed the French giants that he wants to leave during the summer transfer window.

Italy international Verratti has insisted that his decision is not final, however, leaving the door open for PSG to keep him happy by bringing in more players of a similar stature in the coming weeks.

"It's not that I want to go at all costs, it's just I want to see if they really do build a great squad this time. In that case, I would be happy to stay," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"Each year they say they are going to build a great squad, but we've seen the results. Promises are not enough. If, on the other hand, this time PSG with [sporting director Antero] Henrique stick to what they say, then I will be absolutely happy to stay. At the end of the day, nobody is forcing me to leave."

Verratti has been linked with Barcelona in a deal that could be worth a world-record fee, but Juventus have already ruled themselves out of the running due to his hefty valuation.