Chelsea and Todd Boehly could still complete one of the signings of the summer in Lionel Messi. The World Cup winner is expected to leave Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season.
Messi has spent the last two seasons in France after joining on a free transfer from Barcelona. The 2021 signing was another attempt by Qatari Sports Investments to bring the Champions League title to the Parc de France, but Les Parisiens have crashed out in the round of 16 in both years.
With PSG edging closer to another Ligue 1 title, Messi's future is growing increasingly likely to be away from France. A return to Barcelona has been strongly tipped, with clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United States keen on his services too.
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Of course, Barcelona is expected to be Messi's preference. Between 2004 and 2021, the 35-year-old scored 672 goals in 778 appearances - assisting another 303. Arguably the Catalonia club's best ever player, a return to Spain would be the perfect ending to his great career.
However, Barca's atrocious financial situation has sparked doubts over the move. The finances are said to be a major hurdle in their attempts at landing Messi, with the club unsuccessfully failing to reach an agreement with La Liga.
The concerns over the finances leaves the door open for other parties to swoop in. Chelsea have been linked with the player in the past and Boehly's known desire to sign a big-time player at the club makes Messi the perfect temptation.
Messi has already ventured away from Spain and conquered one of Europe's top five leagues with France. He's yet to play in the Premier League and a move to Stamford Bridge would allow him the opportunity to do so.
Speaking on Monday, Barcelona boss Xavi has insisted Messi's future will depend on his intentions. "It's up in the air," the former Barca midfielder said.
"It depends on many things. There is not much more I can say. Leo is a spectacular footballer. He is a friend. From there, it depends on many things, but above all on his intentions and what he wants."
If Messi has a change of heart and is persuaded to do so, his intentions very well could be with Chelsea and the Premier League.
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