Gutted Paris Saint-Germain believed their lucrative bid for Lionel Messi would win the race to sign the world superstar - according to a bombshell report.
The 34-year-old is set to put pen to paper on a new four-year deal at the Nou Camp on Thursday as he commits his future to the only club he's ever known in Europe.
But PSG believed their limitless pockets would win the day as they did everything within their power to recruit Messi away from the torubled Spanish giants.
And now TNT Sports and Radio Italia journalist Marcelo Becheler has revealed how close he believes a deal came to being agreed.
He posted: "PSG was very confident and wanted Messi very much.
"They offered him everything money could buy. Neymar really wanted to play with his idol again.
"Messi wants to stay in the club of his life."
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has told supporters to get ready for news as they are primed to confirm Messi is staying.
He said: "We are doing what we can.
"It is not completely resolved yet but it is progressing well and in the line that we have all thought.
"We will do everything possible within the possibilities of the club so that Messi continues.
"We have many possibilities because we have a player who wants to continue."
