A meeting in Spain fueled speculation about a return of Lionel Messi to FC Barcelona.
The father and manager of the Paris Saint-Germain superstar, Jorge Messi, met President Joan Laporta in Barcelona a few days ago, reported the radio station “Catalunya Ràdio” and other Spanish media. Among other things, the future of the six-time world footballer from Argentina was said to have been discussed.
Messi’s contract in Paris expires on June 30. The 35-year-old could then change free of charge. 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, several media recently reported. That would be the equivalent of more than 320 million euros. 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 Bayern Munich. The second leg in Munich will take place on March 8th.