Chelsea ‘moved too late over Lionel Messi transfer’ as Barcelona and PSG details surface

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Chelsea tried to set up a meeting with Lionel Messi’s camp but left it too late, according to reports. The Argentina international won’t be staying at Barcelona. And while Roman Abramovich is interested in the forward, a move to PSG is expected to beckon instead.

Chelsea have endured a quiet summer transfer window so far.

But, according to the Independent, they tried to capitalise on Messi’s situation by setting up a meeting with the Barcelona icon and his representatives.

It’s claimed that Chelsea tried to arrange this via intermediaries, with Abramovich himself getting involved in the deal.

But, in the end, they left it too late.

PSG are now primed to sign Messi instead, with the Argentina international expected to join a formidable front three also consisting of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

It’s said, however, that they want to complete a deal as quickly as possible to ensure they beat the competition to the player’s signature.

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PSG have agreed a two-year contract with Messi.

And they feel they can make a transfer work due to the Argentine’s huge commercial appeal, believing he can take them to a new level off the field as well as on it.

Should that happen as expected, it will top off a fantastic summer transfer window for the former Ligue 1 champions.

Gianluigi Donnarumma has joined on a free transfer from AC Milan, with the Italy international poised to compete with Keylor Navas for a starting berth.

Achraf Hakimi had been linked with a move to Chelsea but, in the end, opted to chance his arm by moving to the Parc des Princes instead.

At one point, it looked as though Georginio Wijnaldum would join Barcelona.

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But PSG ended up hijacking a deal, with the Ligue 1 titans managing to bring the Netherlands international in on a free transfer.

And, now, Messi could be next.

Speaking on Friday, Barcelona president Joan Laporta opened up on Messi’s situation and insisted the board couldn’t get the finances to work.

“It would not be in Barca’s best interests,” he said.

“We were going to receive some money, but we think that accepting it – and affecting our [revenue from] television rights for the next 50 years – is not something we can do [to keep Messi].

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“It’s too risky. The club is above players, coaches and presidents.”

Laporta was also asked if the situation was retrievable – but didn’t sound positive as he claimed Messi had actually been hoping to stay.

“I don’t want to generate false hope,” he said.

“During the course of negotiations, we’ve known of other offers for Messi.

“There was a time limit, for us and for [Messi’s camp], because they need time. The leagues are starting.

“The negotiations with Messi have ended and it’s brought us here without an agreement because of the salary limit.

“Leo wanted to stay, so he’s not happy. We all wanted him to stay, but now, like us, he is facing the reality of what’s happened. A reality that can’t be changed.”

Laporta, now, has turned his attentions to a new era that doesn’t involve Messi.

“There’s sadness, but the players and Ronald are professionals,” he said.

“They have the chance now to show that with their talent they can lead Barca to success.

“It’s time to take on the challenges we set ourselves and to try and win all the competitions we take part in.

“We demand professionalism and will give maximum support to the players and the coaches in pursuit of excellence.”

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