Barcelona presidential candidate Joan Laporta has called on the election to be held on January 24.

There remains a push for the vote to be pushed back to March due to Spain's lockdown.

"The electoral delays harm the possible renewal of Leo (Messi)," Laporta explained in an interview with Catalunya Radio. "The other clubs can see this situation.

"An audit has to be done before making the offer of a renewal, this situation doesn't benefit Barcelona at all because, I insist, we need him."

Manchester City defender Eric Garcia's future has been linked to Barcelona of late, although Laporta is unable to fully commit to a deal until he is both elected and aware of the club's fiscal state.

"My position has not changed, the manager has told us that there is no money either for a transfer or to pay the agent," Laporta added.

"If he wants to come and Barcelona wants to sign him, let's wait until the end of the season."

When further pressed on a possible delay to the election date, Laporta once again blasted those who are pushing for it.

"I was always in favour of doing the vote as soon as possible," Laporta confirmed.

"Barcelona can't exist without a president any longer.

"Whatever is done, it must take into account the purity of the process so there are no challenges, but I will abide by the decisions they make, the management board has the authority, not the candidates."