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Football London
Football London
Sport
Josh Holland

Man City boss Pep Guardiola reveals Lionel Messi transfer wish amid Chelsea links

Paris Saint-Germain star Lionel Messi could make a sensational return to Barcelona in the summer. The Argentine's contract in Paris expires at the end of the season and there is no indication that he will extend his stay.

Messi joined PSG in 2021 after ending his 21-year association with Barcelona. The World Cup winner has scored 31 goals in 71 appearances for the French side, assisting a further 34.

His blockbuster move to the French capital looks set to end abruptly after the 35-year-old was suspended for visiting Saudi Arabia last week. It's said that the club have decided against offering Messi a new contract, meaning he will move for a free transfer in the summer.

READ MORE: Lionel Messi to Chelsea transfer makes perfect sense for two reasons amid $600m offer

Barcelona are keen on a reunion with Messi and are reportedly attempting to resolve their financial situation to bring the Argentine back to the Nou Camp. A Saudi Arabian club are also said to be interested, with Chelsea also linked with a move with the winger in the past.

Messi's return to Barcelona would be an emotional occasion for everyone associated with the Catalonian club, including Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. The former midfielder managed 247 games between 2008 and 2012, winning three La Liga titles, two Copa del Reys and two Champions League - with Messi the star in his success.

City were supposedly one of the clubs interested in Messi back in 2021, but the move never materialised. "I'm sure Leo Messi will try everything to return to Barcelona," he told ESPN.

"I'm sure Joan Laporta will try to make it happen and Messi the same - I hope he can say goodbye as he deserved, I want to be on my own set on the field to enjoy his farewell."

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