Lionel Messi will not be making a sensational return to Barcelona this summer despite negotiations stalling over a new contract with Paris Saint-Germain, according to his father.
The 35-year-old is out of contract at PSG at the end of the season and despite initial reports that Messi was set to extend his contract in Paris, a compromise has yet to be reached following talks this week.
Barca have openly courted Messi since his acrimonious exit in 2021, with president Joan Laporta insisting the club will try to bring the striker back despite their financial struggles.
However, Messi’s father returned to Barcelona after failed talks with PSG and told reporters that a return to Barcelona is not on the cards despite the uncertainty surrounding his son’s future.
“I don’t think Leo will play for Barca again. The conditions are not met. We have not spoken with Laporta and we have no offer,” Jorge Messi told the Catalan portal SPORT.
“Impossible? I have no idea, I don’t know if it will be impossible. We haven’t even talked to Laporta, stop it. Leo has a contract with PSG.”
What does the future hold for Messi?
Messi reportedly has opted against renewing the lease on his home in Paris, which also expires this summer and is believed to be unwilling to extend his stay with PSG.
The Ligue 1 side are reported by SPORT to have offered Messi a new one-year deal on reduced terms in order to avoid financial fair play issues, something which the player is not keen on.
However, Messi is thought to be disillusioned in Paris and, while PSG will continue to negotiate, the World Cup winner is likely to assess his options when he becomes a free agent in June.
Reports in France claim that Messi is likely to move to Los Angeles FC where he would become the highest-paid player in MLS history, although offers from Barca and other clubs are likely to be considered even if a move is unlikely.
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