Xtra Time Web Desk: With FC Barcelona officially announcing their decision not to sign Lionel Messi on Thursday, the focus automatically shifts as to where the Argentine soccer legend is heading next. Paris Saint Germain and Manchester City are believed to be the front runners to rope in Messi, who has been a free agent for several weeks now. Messi was seen hanging around with PSG stars Neymar Jr and Angel Di Maria few days back.
The biggest factor concerning Messi’s move to a new club will be his exorbitant salary. A shock move to Major League Soccer is still a possibility, but it is thought that Messi wants to continue playing in Europe for other two or three seasons before finally bringing curtains down on his career.
As things stand now Man City are the favourites to sign Messi, but they have just spent big on Jack Grealish and had been interested in Tottenham’s Harry Kane as well. The latest development in Spain will influence the Premier League club to go all out for Messi. It will not be an easy proposition financially for City to sign Messi. Another factor that may influence City to sign Messi is Pep Guardiola, who has expressed his willingness to reunite with the Argentine star .
On the other hand Paris Saint Germain had looked to be the most likely destination for Messi when his relationship with Barcelona was at its worst, but they pulled away when they realised he was nearing a renewal with the Catalan club. Now, their focus is on renewing Kylian Mbappe’s contract.
Not everything is perfect in Paris, either. L’Equipe revealed that PSG will report a deficit of over 200 million euros, having had a deficit of 120 million euros last season. Now, they have to sell players. Another issue in France are taxes. A 30 million euro salary for Messi would mean that the club would have to spend 70 million euros annually on him.
One thing for sure though is the entire football fraternity will be keeping a close eye on the future of Lionel Messi