Lionel Messi is no longer interested in signing an extension with PSG and could be available as a free agent this summer.
(Image credit: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Lionel Messi has changed his mind about signing a new deal with PSG, say reports, casting fresh doubt over the future of the Argentina star.
Messi inspired his country to their first World Cup title since 1986 last month, winning the Golden Ball after a string of decisive performances.
After the tournament, reports suggested that PSG and Messi were set to extend their relationship beyond the end of this season, when his current deal expires.
Lionel Messi isn't just a world champion but a man very much in demand (Image credit: Shaun Botterill - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
However, journalist Gerard Romero claims that the situation has now changed and Messi no longer intends to sign a new contract in Paris.
As things stand, the 35-year-old looks likelier to be a free agent than a PSG player come July.
Messi has previously been linked with a move to Major League Soccer and AS reports that the contract situation has re-opened the door to that possibility.
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Could Ronaldo and Messi resume their rivalry in Saudi Arabia? (Image credit: Getty Images)
Messi has been in terrific form for PSG this season, providing 13 goals and 14 assists in 21 matches in all competitions.
The former Barcelona great has helped the capital club go three points clear of Lens on top of the Ligue 1 table, but they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Rennes in their last league outing.
Messi is valued at around €50 million by Transfermarkt.
Alasdair Mackenzie is a freelance journalist based in Rome, and a FourFourTwo contributor since 2015. When not pulling on the FFT shirt, he can be found at Reuters, The Times and the i. An Italophile since growing up on a diet of Football Italia on Channel 4, he now counts himself among thousands of fans sharing a passion for Ross County and Lazio.
