Lionel Messi’s possible return to Barcelona this summer is eagerly anticipated, and there appears to be growing optimism that a deal can be done in the next few weeks.
Messi’s contract at Paris Saint-Germain expires at the end of the season, and despite the willingness of club officials, a renewal appears to be very unlikely at this stage. This could allow Barcelona to swoop in and sign the Argentine for free.
However, a deal is still believed to be far away, and MD have now reported that Messi is holding off on committing to Barcelona for the time being, as he waits for the outcome of UEFA’s investigation into El Caso Negreira.
Should Barcelona be found guilty by UEFA, they risk being excluded from next season’s Champions League, which would reportedly put Messi off returning for a second spell in the summer.
Barcelona are expected to be informed of UEFA’s decision by mid-June at the latest, and as they expect no punishment, it is from this point that they will hope to secure Messi’s signature for next season and beyond.
