Lionel Messi does NOT want to quit PSG this summer and plans to see out deal despite Barcelona transfer return talk
LIONEL MESSI reportedly looks set to stay at Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season despite rumours he could return to Barcelona.
The 34-year-old Argentine has struggled to find the back of the net since arriving in Paris in the summer.
Messi has scored seven goals and provided 11 assists in 26 appearances for the Ligue 1 giants.
And his indifferent form has led to reports of a potential return to Barcelona after just one year in France.
However, according to Marca, Messi will stay at PSG beyond the end of the season.
After emotionally leaving Barca last year, he signed a two-year contract with Mauricio Pochettino’s team.
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And he is expected to see out his deal with the club, although there is currently no option of an additional year.
PSG are thought to be keen for Messi to stay as they prepare for the exit of Kylian Mbappe.
The 23-year-old is out of contract in the summer and expected to join Real Madrid.
His departure could see Messi be pushed into a more attacking role – with the South American having been predominantly employed as a playmaker for much of this season.
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Messi is also said to be focused on trying to win the Champions League with PSG.
Earlier this month they were eliminated by Real Madrid in the round of 16 after spurning a 1-0 first leg lead by losing 3-1 at the Bernabeu.
As well as his ambitions at club level, Messi is also keen to be in the best possible form ahead of the World Cup later this year.
He has never won the tournament with Argentina and may see this as his final opportunity.