Freixa: Sergio Ramos was offered to Barcelona, I would have signed him

Toni Freixa, one of the candidates to become Barcelona's next president, has revealed that Sergio Ramos came close to joining the Catalan club in the past.

Freixa is just one of those in the running to take over at the Camp Nou in the upcoming elections, and he has been speaking about Ramos and other things in the lead up to January 24.

"We can't sign Ramos," Freixa told El Partidazo. "He's a symbol of Real Madrid and he couldn't come here under any circumstances.

"I wish he had come when he was at Sevilla. As I understand it, he was offered to Barcelona. I would have signed him."

Lionel Messi's future is something that the new president will have to resolve and while Freixa recognises his importance, he knows that there are other pressing issues as well.

"The president, together with the sports management [team], will have to decide on a lot of things," he said.

"Leo is important, but he's not the only thing."

Not shy of stirring up controversy, the presidential candidate expressed his belief that Real Madrid receive favourable decisions more often than anyone.

"Referees don't help the big sides," Freixa said. "They help Real Madrid; I really think that.

"For every one that might help Barcelona, there are 50 that help Madrid."

Ronald Koeman's position has been questioned lately due to the Blaugrana's terrible start to the season, but Freixa said the Dutchman has a place at the club.

"He would continue with me," Freixa revealed. "We've always given coaches confidence at Barcelona.

"It happened with [Frank] Rijkaard and [Johan] Cruyff. That's what the club need."

Looking deeper into the club, he discussed the club's needs and his chances in the election.

"I see myself with a chance of winning," Freixa said. "Barcelona's members want an honest president, one who will tell them the truth.

"Someone who can lead and can carry Barcelona through the challenges they're facing.

"I don't intend to use politics to win these elections."