Lionel Messi 'won't renew PSG contract' next season; will icon make sensational Barcelona return?

Legendary striker Lionel Messi's future at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has hit the headlines again, with a recent report stating the Argentinian legend has decided not to renew his contract at Parc des Princes next year and is considering a summer transfer move.

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35-year-old Messi unexpectedly moved from Barcelona to PSG last year, saying a tearful goodbye to the Camp Nou after spending his whole career there before his free transfer to Paris. However, it appears that Messi's stay at PSG may not last long, as journalist Miquel Blazquez of Beteve reported that the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner has already decided to reject a new contract with the Parisian club and try a different challenge.

"Leo Messi is clear that he is not going to renew his contract with PSG. The Argentine soccer player will not continue playing in Paris next season, via @beteve #FCBarcelona," wrote Blazquez on Twitter. This will undoubtedly spark rumours that Messi might decide to return to Barcelona, though one can only assume that the Argentinian talisman may have several other offers.

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Last week, reports stated that Barcelona President Joan Laporta had a phone call with Messi in a bid to mend ties with the veteran striker after his shock exit from the La Liga giants last year. According to the Athletic, Laporta tried to mend fences with Messi and apologised for how the legendary striker left Camp Nou in tears. The PSG icon reportedly told the president that while he is only focused on the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 with Argentina, the possibility of moving on to Barcelona is still open.

Earlier reports also suggested that Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami are also keen on bringing Messi to the United States. While it would be incredibly fantastic to see the Argentina international play in the Premier League before his career is through, one has to acknowledge that it seems highly unlikely at this time. 

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Messi, who could not replicate his brilliance at Barcelona in his first season in Paris, has struck form in the ongoing season. The Argentine forward has not only scored five goals across all competitions for the Parisian club but has also picked up from where he left off last season as a reliable and consistent playmaker, logging eight assists for the Ligue 1 champions in their 2022-23 campaign. The news that the iconic striker is all set to depart PSG will undoubtedly disappoint his fans.