Barcelona in talks with Lionel Messi over sensational return to Camp Nou

Messi left Barcelona, who he joined at the age of 13, for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021.

The Argentine wanted to stay at the Camp Nou but the club were unable to balance the books with him on the wage bill and a free transfer to Paris followed.

Life in France has been far from straightforward for Messi, with PSG fans turning on the World Cup winner in recent months.

They feel Messi has disrespected the club, particularly after he was fined for missing training for an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia.

A clause in Messi’s deal means he could continue in Paris for another 12 months once his deal expires in July.

However, neither side are keen to continue the arrangement, meaning Messi can leave on a free transfer.

Having bagged Cristiano Ronaldo, clubs in Saudi Arabia are keen on signing Messi and he would become the highest paid player in the world with a move to the middle-east.

However, Xavi says he’s asked Barcelona’s president to sign Messi and that he’s spoken to the playmaker over a sensational return.

‘I told the president that Messi return makes sense,’ Xavi told Catalan publication Sport.

‘It’s up to Leo. I think he has to decide, it’s up to him… I’m speaking with Leo, yes.’

Barcelona struggled to comply with La Liga financial rules last summer, which led them to agreeing a fee with Manchester United for Frenkie De Jong.

Their financial situation has eased somewhat but they are still walking a tightrope.

Messi would have to agree a significantly lowered salary in order to return.

MORE : Sergio Aguero expects Arsenal and Man Utd to challenge Man City for the Premier League title next season

For more stories like this, check our sport page.