LaLiga president Javier Tebas insists Barcelona could've afforded to keep Leo Messi.

Messi left for PSG last month with Barca president Joan Laporta insisting they didn't have the finances to pay for his new contract.

"I know for certain that his departure wasn't for economic reasons and that it could have been avoided," the LaLiga president said.

"Perhaps Messi's exit has been the hardest for me because I think he is the best in history.

"He didn't deserve to leave like this, not only leaving Barcelona but also LaLiga."

Tebas alsosaid that Barcelona were ready to sign up for LaLiga's CVC deal, but changed their mind when Real Madrid president Florentino Perez told them to.

"Florentino Perez is holding Barcelona hostage," Tebas said in the interview with Sport.

"Barcelona were in agreement with the CVC deal for around a month, until Real Madrid said no.

"There is an inferiority complex in the club with Florentino Perez."