Lionel Messi is set to leave Paris St-Germain at the end of his current contract this summer. Although there was an initial ‘agreement in principle’ to extend his stay for another year, both the club and the player have decided not to sign the deal.
Messi is hesitant to commit due to financial issues, which he believes could limit the club’s ability to compete at the top level in Europe, and the French champions are focusing on developing young talent.
Messi signed a two-year deal with an option to renew for another year in 2021, but the option will not be activated.
Jorge Messi, his father, informed Paris St-Germain’s football advisor Luis Campos of the decision a few weeks ago.
Messi fears that PSG’s budget may be restricted next season to comply with Financial Fair Play rules, which could put the quality of their squad at risk.
PSG’s Qatari owners are frustrated by Messi’s reluctance to commit to a new deal in recent months, as they believe it sends a clear message that he does not want to stay.
The 35-year-old forward was also suspended by the club for two weeks on Tuesday after traveling to Saudi Arabia without permission.
Messi’s dream return to Barcelona seems unlikely due to the La Liga leaders’ severe financial difficulties. He has received interest from Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, and an offer of about 400m euros (£354m) to play in Saudi Arabia for a year with Al-Hilal.