Newcastle want Lionel Messi as he prepares for PSG departure

Newcastle United want Paris Saint-Germain attacker Lionel Messi when he walks away for free this summer, according to SPORT.

The Premier League club wants to reinforce the squad with quality as they prepare for European football.

And then the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will leave PSG this summer after two years in France.

Messi will leave the Ligue 1 champions on a sour note as he has received a two-week suspension for an authorised trip to Saudi Arabia.

Fans protested against club bosses today, bellowing angry chants at Neymar, Marco Verratti and Messi. They called the players mercenaries.

Messi and PSG had been negotiating a contract extension since the 2022 World Cup, but talks have been unsuccessful.

The former Barcelona star will now leave the club this summer. Unsurprisingly, several clubs are chasing his signature.

Barcelona want to bring him back, but their financial issues are a stumbling block. La Liga will likely reject any plans to sign and register him.

La Liga president Javier Tebas has already said Barca will need to trim their wages and probably sell their stars to fulfil the conditions to bring Messi back.

Another option for Messi is Saudi Arabia Pro League club Al-Hilal. They are reportedly preparing a £320 million offer for the Argentine international, but he wants to play Champions League football.

Saudi-owned Newcastle are now an option. Eddie Howe’s side will likely be in the Champions League next season, which could appeal to the 35-year-old.

The Magpies are looking to reinforce their squad with a new right-sided attacker. They are keeping an eye on Raphinha and the Messi situation.

Messi could be a marquee signing for Newcastle especially coming on a free transfer.

He still has months to decide where he will be next season, but all signs indicate a stay in Europe.