PSG have performed U-turn over Lionel Messi transfer
Lionel Messi 'wanted to stay' says Barcelona president
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PSG have reportedly decided to offer Lionel Messi a two-year contract after initially distancing themselves from any deal to sign the Argentine forward. Barcelona’s talisman has left the Nou Camp after failing to agree a contract extension.
Messi had originally planned to remain at Barcelona beyond the summer.
His contract at the La Liga side expired on June 30 meaning that he has been a free agent since July 1 but he was expected to sign a new deal that would see him remain at the Catalan giants.
However, a shock announcement from the club confirmed their record goalscorer would depart on a free transfer.
And now a switch to France’s Ligue 1 looks set to be Messi’s next destination with PSG reportedly set to win the race to sign him.
According to the Telegraph, PSG had distanced themselves from the signing due to the club’s financial deficit.
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But a move now looks to be on the cards after finding a way to make the transfer possible.
The Parisians are apparently encouraged by the positive signs from Messi’s camp.
The player himself also appreciated PSG’s speed in wanting to make the deal work when considering their restrictions due to Financial Fair Play.
A meeting is now reportedly scheduled to take place on Saturday between Messi’s father Jorge and the PSG hierarchy with the expectation that the Argentine will complete the move.
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The 34-year old will reunite with former Barcelona team-mate Neymar with whom they won a host of trophies together including the Champions League in 2015.
At Barcelona, Messi has won a record six Ballon d’Ors and has played a record 767 games for his club.
He is also their all-time leading goal scorer with a staggering 672 goals since making his senior debut aged 17 in October 2004.
During his time in the Catalan capital, he has won 10 La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.
Speaking about his shock exit at a press conference, Barca president Joan Laporta confirmed that Messi wanted to remain at the club
“Leo wanted to stay, so he’s not happy,” he said.
“We all wanted him to stay. For him, he has to confront reality.
“It’s a reality that can’t be changed and he knows I wish him the best wherever he goes.”
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