Lionel Messi will reportedly re-join Barcelona when his current contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires in 2023.
Messi joined Barcelona in his youth and spent 17 highly successful years in their first team.
But his time at Barca came to an end in 2021. Messi wanted to extend his stay but Barca's financial problems prevented him from doing so.
He joined PSG on a two-year deal and is currently thriving at the French club.
But it appears his time in France will come to an end at the end of the season.
That's because Argentine journalist Veronica Brunati has reported he will re-join Barca when the 2022/23 campaign comes to an end.
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How reliable is Brunati?
David Cartlidge, editor for ESPN, has confirmed Brunati is one of the most reliable journalists in Argentina and is close to Messi's camp.
Andy West, sports writer and commentator, has also said Brunati 'knows her stuff'.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - APRIL 06: Lionel Messi of Barcelona celebrates scoring his fourth goal during the UEFA Champions League quarter final second leg match between Barcelona and Arsenal at Camp Nou on April 6, 2010 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jasper Juinen/Getty Images)
Can Barcelona afford to re-sign Lionel Messi?
Barcelona vice president Eduard Romeu opened the door to Messi returning to the club last week.
"It would be possible financially because if he returned it would be as a free agent," he told Catalunya Ràdio, per talkSPORT.
“But it’s a decision which has to be made by the coaching staff and the player. It doesn’t correspond to me [to make those decisions], but it would be viable. Although I don’t have it in the budget.
“He is an icon of the club. This will always be his home, but it will be a technical decision [if he returns].”
SAITAMA, JAPAN - JULY 23: Lionel Messi of Paris Sait-Germain looks on during the preseason friendly between Paris Saint-Germain and Urawa Red Diamonds at Saitama Stadium on July 23, 2022 in Saitama, Japan. (Photo by Koji Watanabe/Getty Images)
Does Xavi want Messi back at Barcelona?
Xavi and Messi were teammates for over a decade at Barcelona.
Xavi spoke about his former teammate last week and declined to comment when asked about a potential return to Barca for Messi.
"With Leo, let's see, but it's not the moment to talk about it right now," Xavi said in a news conference ahead of Barca's Champions League game against Internazionale on Tuesday, per ESPN.
"You know the love I have for him. He is a friend and I will always wish him the best. Barca is his home, but we're not doing him any favours speaking about [his future], either.
"Let's leave him in peace to enjoy his time in Paris and wish him all the best."