Joan Laporta insists Lamine Yamal is untouchable amid reported €250m PSG offer

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has reaffirmed the club’s determination to keep Lamine Yamal, revealing that Paris Saint-Germain reportedly offered €250 million for the Spanish sensation when he was just 17 years old.

Speaking ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League showdown against PSG, Laporta recalled the decision to reject the enormous proposal, insisting that the young forward remains central to the Catalan club’s long-term project.

“When PSG offered us €250 million for Lamine Yamal and we refused, he was 17 years old. Some people thought we were crazy,” Laporta said, in comments reported by Jijantes FC.

PSG have previously been linked with a move for the Barcelona star, although the French club reportedly denied making such a formal offer. Nevertheless, Laporta’s comments underline the interest Yamal has attracted since establishing himself as one of European football’s most exciting young talents.

The 19-year-old has committed his future to Barcelona by signing a contract extension that runs until June 2031, strengthening the club’s position against potential suitors.

Laporta also dismissed concerns that a wealthier club could tempt Yamal away from Catalonia, highlighting the forward’s connection with Barcelona and his comfort within the club’s environment.

“Being away from Barcelona is very cold. Here, we are in a good place,” the president explained in an interview with L’Équipe.

Despite the reported transfer interest, Laporta insisted that his relationship with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi remains positive.

“My relationship with Nasser is very good. I think I can say that we are friends. There is a great deal of respect between us,” he said.

The Barcelona president also praised Al-Khelaïfi’s leadership of the European Club Association and congratulated PSG on their achievements in European football.

Laporta acknowledged the work done by Al-Khelaïfi and PSG coach Luis Enrique, crediting the pair for helping the French club reach the top of European football.

With Barcelona preparing to face PSG in the Champions League, Yamal is expected to be one of the central figures in a contest between two of the continent’s leading sides.

For Laporta, however, the message is clear: Barcelona have no intention of willingly parting with their young star, regardless of the size of any future offer.