PSG chief hints at potential signing of Lionel Messi while discussing Neymar and Mbappe

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) sporting director Leonardo Araujo has revealed that Ligue 1 giants are keeping a close eye on Barcelona captain Lionel Messi as 33-year-old is w into final six months of his contract at Camp u. Messi handed in his transfer request in a bid to leave Barcelona in summer but n opted against taking club to court over legal proceedings after LaLiga heavyweights highlighted his release clause. In a recent interview, Leonardo discussed  possibility of bringing Messi to French capital as he remains optimistic over contract extensions for Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. 

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Lionel Messi transfer news: PSG chief hints at potential signing of Barcelona captain

While speaking to France Football on rumours that have linked Lionel Messi to PSG, Brazilian said, “Great players like Messi will always be on PSG's list. But this is of course t time to talk about it, or to dream about it."

Leonardo n outlined fact that Messi still has four months left on his deal with Barcelona but PSG are one of several clubs monitoring six-time Ballon d'Or winner, "You see, we are seated at large table of those clubs who are following matter closely. In fact, , we are t yet seated, but our chair is reserved just in case. Four months in football is an eternity, especially in this period.” Interestingly, Barcelona and PSG will be seen fighting for a European quarter-final spot in Champions League Round of 16 in February with former teammates Messi and Neymar reuniting, although as rivals.   

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Reports from France have also suggested that PSG are w keen on prioritising contract extensions for Neymar and Mbappe, both of whom are tied down at PSG until 2022. However, it is believed that new contract extensions for  two superstar forwards at Parc des Princes might prove to be an expensive business for defending French champions. Reports from AS have claimed that Real Madrid are 'confident' of signing Kylian Mbappe in summer while Neymar's long-term future at PSG is still in doubt. 

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Despite speculation around Mbappe and Neymar, Leonardo remains confident that Mbappe and Neymar should have ir respective contract extensions settled. He said, "I hope y (Neymar and Mbappe) are convinced that PSG is a good place at moment for a very high level and ambitious footballer. We don't have to beg m: ‘Please stay’. It's discussed more than that and those who really want to stay will stay. We talk regularly and I have good feelings on se two issues.”

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Im Credits - Barcelona, PSG Instagram