Lionel Messi to join Luis Suarez at Atletico Madrid? FC Barcelona star told to 'come home for Christmas'
Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has jokingly told Barcelona forward Lionel Messi to join his friend Luis Suarez at the Rojiblancos.
Suarez signed for Atletico last week in a €6 million deal and the Uruguayan striker had an instant impact as he hit two goals after coming off the bench against Granada in LaLiga on Sunday.
Messi's future, meanwhile, remains in doubt after the Argentine told Barca he wanted to leave in the summer.
The Argentine ended up staying at the Catalan club, but is out of contract at the end of the season and will be free to negotiate with other sides from January.
Speaking to Cadena COPE and Radio Marca, Cerezo said: "In life, if you want something...
"If Leo Messi wants to play with Luis Suarez, I tell him the same thing that is said with nougat (in a famous Spanish television commercial): 'Let him come home for Christmas'.
"With excitement, anything is possible."
Cerezo also sought to defend much-criticised Barca counterpart Josep Maria Bartomeu following the transfer which saw Suarez sign for Atletico.
"Bartomeu is a good friend and a great president," he said. "At the moment, things aren't going well at Barca, but he acted as he had to act.
"The signing wasn't complicated and the player is playing where he wanted to play."
Read more
Barca analysis: Fati stars after Suarez sale, Messi smiles again
Barca still working to sign striker after Suarez sale, says Koeman
Luis Suarez scores twice in eventful Atletico Madrid debut
Barca coach Koeman understands Messi 'sadness' over Suarez exit
Atletico Madrid announce Luis Suarez transfer from Barcelona
Messi slams Barca for 'kicking out' Suarez: 'Nothing surprises me'
