Messi’s priority is Europe but not PSG, with Barcelona return likely

Lionel Messi’s priority is playing in Europe but not with Paris Saint-Germain, according to Spanish football expert Guillem Balague.

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner continues to be linked with a move away from the French giants, with his contract up at the end of the season.

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A move to Saudi Arabia, joining Al Hilal, and Inter Miami have previously been mooted as potential destinations for the star.

According to Guillem Balague, though, Messi’s desire is to remain in Europe, but staying at PSG is out of the equation.

“I can tell you, the plan is let’s finish the season, and see what happens, let’s see what offers we get.

“Where he fancies going, but his [Messi’s] priority is to stay in Europe, but not PSG so let’s see.”

Messi’s father, Jorge, has recently quashed claims his son has already agreed a move to Saudi Arabia, insisting his decision will come at the end of the campaign.

Messi may well have his heart set on a move back to Barcelona and end his career at a club he was associated with for 21 years before joining PSG.

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Barcelona will, however, be playing their games next season at the Estadi Olimpic, with their current home under construction.

An option which has been mooted previously is Messi joining David Beckham’s Inter Miami on a six-month deal around February-March time before re-joining his boyhood club at a later stage.

The 35-year-old does spend the majority of his time away from Paris, having retained his family home on the outskirts of Barcelona.

Messi often takes regular trips back to the Catalan capital when the opportunity comes.

With Barcelona’s financial position still perilous, the club will continue to look at cost-effective ways they can improve their team, as they try to get Messi back on board.

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