Things are taking a new turn in the Lionel Messi transfer saga, as the 35-year old Argentinian has reportedly received a blockbuster €200 million offer from his former club FC Barcelona.
Barcelona have reportedly been keen on bringing their talisman back after they had to let him go at the end of the 2020-21 season following a financial setback. The seven times Ballon d’Or winner moved to Paris Saint-Germain in hopes of bringing the Champions League to the Parisian side, but so far, he has failed to do so.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta on Messi: “Messi knows that Barça's doors are open, we will see — I have to find a way to improve the current relationship between Messi and Barça”. 🚨🔵🔴🇦🇷 #FCB
Laporta spoke to “The business and money behind sports”, via @tjuanmarti. pic.twitter.com/qsfsXTrGoB
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 24, 2023
As his contract with PSG is nearing its end, there are new rumors emerging every day about where the current World Cup champion will be playing next.
The most popular rumors claim that he will be extending his contract with Les Parisiens, while others claim that he will be making his move towards Saudi Arabia, reigniting his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo. David Beckham has also reportedly stated his interest in signing Messi for his MLS soccer club Inter Miami.
FC Barcelona offer a deal “worth 200 million euros” to Lionel Messi
In exchange for Messi’s services, the club has offered him a two-year contract at the minimum wage. His merchandising earnings, however, will go entirely to the seven times Ballon d’Or winner, and they could be in the region of €200 million.
Considering the current financial situation of FC Barcelona, this deal is surely a smart proposal by the Barcelona board. This offer is quite similar to the deal Barcelona signed with Dani Alves in January 2022. The potential sum of money involved here is lucrative for even a player of Messi’s caliber, and it is quite hard to turn down.
Sergio Aguero at @KingsLeague: "My feeling is that there is a 50% chance that Leo Messi will return at Barça" 🔵🔴 #FCB
"I think that Leo should retire at Barça. Barcelona is his home, he has to finish his career here".
"Laporta has to make an effort in bringing back Leo". pic.twitter.com/MX6IshlWdo
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 23, 2023
Lionel Messi hasn’t said anything about the deal as of yet. During a recent home loss to Rennes, he was booed by the PSG crowd and may now be looking to leave Paris.
Additionally, Messi will be looking to win his fifth Champions League title next season, and Barcelona’s potential ban from the UCL might play a big part in his decision.
The 38-year old is currently on an international break. He is currently spending his time in Argentina, where he got a warm reception from the fans.
Barcelona fans will surely love to see their club legend return to the Catalan side. As for what Messi decides for himself, we won’t know until he speaks up.
