A meeting fuels speculation in Spain about a return of Lionel Messi to FC Barcelona.
The father and manager of the Paris Saint-Germain superstar, Jorge Messi, met with Barça President Joan Laporta in Barcelona a few days ago, the radio station “Catalunya Ràdio” and other Spanish media reported on Wednesday.
Among other things, the future of the six-time world footballer from Argentina was said to have been discussed. Just a few days ago, Jorge Messi asserted that a comeback was not realistic.
Messi’s contract in Paris expires on June 30, which means the 35-year-old could move on a free transfer in the summer. Contract negotiations with the French champions are also currently stalling, which is why the Argentinian’s departure seems quite realistic.
Salary biggest problem for Barcelona
According to media reports, in addition to Barcelona, Inter Miami and the top Saudi club Al-Hilal are also interested in signing the world champion.
In Saudi Arabia, Messi could collect an annual salary of 350 million US dollars (328.21 million euros), several media recently reported. FC Barcelona could not compete with this because of the salary caps in force in Spain.
With PSG, however, Messi will first try to bring the Champions League title to Paris for the first time. In the round of 16 first leg, however, the French champions lost 1-0 at home to FC Bayern Munich. The second leg in Munich will take place on March 8th.
