Lionel Messi makes PSG contract extension pledge as MLS rumours put on hold - but club insist nothing is official yet

Posted Thursday, December 22, 2022 by Goal.com

Lionel Messi has told PSG he will extend his contract when post-World Cup negotiations begin, but the club insist nothing is official.

WHAT'S HAPPENING? The Argentina icon said he wouldn't discuss a new contract until after the World Cup, and negotiations seem to have moved quickly since his triumph, with the player pledging to continue at the club 72 hours after Argentina lifted the trophy, GOAL can confirm. But the club have warned that nothing has been put in writing yet, as conflicting reports emerge.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: The decision to stay in France has postponed potential plans to leave the continent to join MLS, as had been reported in recent months. He will spurn American interest for now, and continue his club career in Paris, with PSG set to compete for a Ligue 1 and Champions league title over the coming months.

Inter Miami had been one of the clubs most strongly linked with a move for Messi. The Argentine is believed to enjoy holidays in Miami and various reports had stated that his representatives were in discussions over a potential transfer to MLS, but now that idea appears dead and buried - at least for the time being.

WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI? Messi will return to Paris after a World Cup triumph. The club have their eyes set on a league and European double.