Where could Lionel Messi end up ahead of the 2023/24 campaign?

Only making more history on February 28th as Lionel Messi was named men’s player of the year at the 2022 Best FIFA Awards, the PSG superstar has only cemented his spot as the greatest player of his generation over the past few months.

Holding off PSG teammate Kylian Mbappe and Real Madrid ace Karim Benzema as he claimed this season’s award, Messi is still at the peak of his powers despite now being 35 years old.

Further writing himself into Argentina’s history books during the 2022 World Cup as he guided the South American heavyweights to a first world crown since 1980, Messi has continued to shine since arriving in the French capital.

Following in the footsteps of Diogo Maradona as he lifted world football’s most sort after accolade out in Qatar, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner scored 27 goals in 49 games for club and country during the 2021/22 campaign.

However, despite it appearing over the winter that Messi would be putting pen to paper on a new deal with PSG, it now looks like Messi could be set for another blockbuster move this summer.

With clubs from across the globe all desperate to snap up the World Cup-winner when the window reopens, we have taken a look at who has been installed as the bookmakers’ favourites.

 

Inter Miami

Although Messi might be in the midst of another record-breaking flurry after being crowned world champion over the winter, the 35-year-old could be set for a shock MLS switch in 2023.

While many feel that Messi is still more than capable of guiding PSG to a maiden Champions League title and still play a leading role on the European stage, the Argentinian history-maker has long been linked with a potential move to America.

Despite it during the World Cup break that Messi was not ready to sail off to the States, Inter Miami suddenly find themselves leading the chase to complete what would be the biggest signing in the MLS’ history.

With Inter Miami owner and ex-Manchester United superstar David Beckham making it publically clear over the past 24 months that he is desperate to bring Messi to the USA, the MLS franchise are ready to break the bank this summer.

As reports continue to suggest that Messi is becoming more open to the chance of signing a multi-year deal with Inter Miami, many would be disappointed to see the 172-cap international leave European football.

Inter Miami to sign Lionel Messi this summer – Best Odds: 7/5 with BetUK

 

Barcelona

If Messi is to end his stint in Paris this summer and pass on the chance to sign a contract extension with PSG, neutrals from across the globe would be hoping that Messi makes an emotional return to Catalonia.

While Barcelona might still be dealing with some long-standing financial issues behind the scenes at the Nou Camp, Xavi’s side have made it clear that they’re dreaming of a Messi return in 2023.

With members of the Nou Camp hierarchy stating that they will do everything in their power to entice their homegrown icon back to Spain, Barcelona’s most famous son could be tempted into one last dance.

With Xavi’s side now sat firmly in pole position to claim a first La Liga crown since 2019 this year, there is no doubt that Barcelona’s Head Coach would welcome back his close friend back with open arms.

Joining Barca’s famed academy at just the age of 13, Messi scored a record 672 goals in 778 games for the Spanish heavyweights and lifted 35 trophies during his iconic tenure in Spain.

Barcelona to sign Lionel Messi this summer – Best Odds: 7/2 with BetUK

 

Manchester City

While Manchester City might have only welcome Premier League record-breaker Erling Haaland to the Etihad last summer, could Pep Guardiola’s side be eyeing another famous swoop this year?

Although the former Barcelona boss might have made it part of his approach to focus City’s transfer strategy on young talent, it is no secret that Guardiola regards Messi as the greatest player he has ever worked alongside.

With continued links during Messi’s tenure in Catalonia that Messi could be open to testing himself on the Premier League stage before hanging up his boots, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has also been a rumoured target for City.

With Messi potentially keen on a reunion with Guardiola ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, the English champions have already proven over the past decade that they’re willing to break the bank.

Although it might appear that Inter Miami or an emotional return to Barcelona are the two leading contenders for Messi this summer, Manchester City could eye up a sensational late move over the coming weeks.

Manchester City to sign Lionel Messi this summer – 16/1 with BetUK

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