Former Barcelona vice-president Emili Rousaud says “Neymar coming back is possible”, with the coronavirus pandemic expected to push prices down in the next transfer market.

The former Barcelona vice-president, however, noted that the effect of coronavirus cast doubts inside the club regarding the operation.

Rousaud, who resigned last week, told L’Equipe: “Yes because this situation will most certainly cause deflation in the transfer market – and most clubs will have financial difficulties.

“Barça wants to bring back Neymar. It will be necessary to analyze if this operation fits with the finances of the club. The interest of the club is real, even if it is complex.

“Three parties are involved: Barça, PSG, and the player. If these three manage to agree, they will find an arrangement: a split payment, for example. Everything will depend on everyone’s good will, and in particular on Neymar’s requirements.

The reigning Liga champions have been linked with a move to bring a familiar face back to Camp Nou ever since a record-breaking €222 million (£195m/$240m) switch to Paris Saint-Germain was made in 2017.

Neymar has left the door open, while Lionel Messi has spoken of his desire to see the fearsome ‘MSN’ strike force reformed – with Luis Suarez still on the books in Catalunya.