Barcelona have no concerns over Messi, says sporting director

Barcelona are relaxed over the future of Lionel Messi after the Argentina star received a €2m (£1.7m) fine and a 21-month suspended prison sentence for evading tax in Spain, the club's sporting director has said.

Speaking at the unveiling of new signing Lucas Digne, Robert Fernandez said the 29-year-old will return to pre-season training as soon as his holiday ends.

Messi retired from international football last month after missing a penalty in Argentina's Copa America final defeat to Chile.

It was his fourth loss in a major tournament final with the national team, and the second against the same opponents in the Copa America.

"We have no concern [about Messi]. He'll return as soon as possible and start training right away," Fernandez was quoted as saying by Football Espana.

"I haven't spoken to Messi. Holidays are for rest and the player wants to relax and not be near his phone."

Fernandez also confirmed that Barcelona will sign another striker this summer as a back-up option to the attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar.

The Catalan club have signed Denis Suarez, Samuel Umtiti and Digne – from Villarreal, Lyon and Paris Saint-Germain, respectively – thus far this summer.

"We'll go for a forward, and it won't take long to decide [on who it'll be]," Fernandez said.

"One of the most important things we look for in the market is whether they're a good player and that we truly think they can succeed.

"We always keep in mind that players with potential may cost a little more those with experience, but I repeat we have a great team and must value [our existing players].

"There has been talk of many players and many possibilities. We can sign either a young or experienced forward, and we're looking at both. We'll study all possibilities."