LIONEL MESSI DECLINES A PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN CONTRACT EXTENSION, MAY RETURN TO BARCELONA IN THE SUMMER

Lionel Messi is reportedly unwilling to extend his stay at Paris Saint-Germain and could even complete a surprise return to Barcelona this summer. Elsewhere, Arsenal are set to beat Barca to the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, Brighton have slapped a £100-million release clause on Moises Caicedo and Newcastle United are set to pip Chelsea to the signing of Anthony Gordon.

Lionel Messi is considering his future at Paris Saint-Germain and is reportedly unwilling to sign a contract extension in the French capital. The 35-year-old’s current deal is set to expire at the end of the season and his future is uncertain. PSG were confident that Messi was planning to extend his contract before the World Cup, but Argentina’s triumph seems to be key to his decision.

Spanish media outlet report, Once he had achieved the feat of winning the World Cup, winning more titles in France or even another Champions League would not motivate him enough. Barcelona are now considered as the main candidates to sign Messi. However, one of the conditions that would have to be met for his return to be possible would be for Messi to give up a large part of his salary in order to adapt to the current situation of the Catalan side and their wage bill.