Paris Saint-Germain 'confident of signing Lionel Messi this summer'

Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly the firm favourites to sign Lionel Messi on a free transfer.

Barcelona announced on Thursday evening that the Argentina international would not be signing a new contract at Camp Nou, meaning that he will play his football elsewhere in 2021-22.

Manchester City were thought to be in pole position to sign the attacker, but according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, PSG have emerged as the clear favourites to secure his signature.

Romano claims that the French giants are 'progressing in direct negotiations', and Mauricio Pochettino's side are 'now feeling confident' of bringing the South American to Paris.

The journalist also reports that Neymar is attempting to convince Messi to make the move to PSG, with the two players sharing a close relationship following their time together at Camp Nou.

The 34-year-old was again in impressive form during the 2020-21 campaign despite the speculation surrounding his future, scoring 38 times and contributing 14 assists in 47 appearances.

Messi also played a key role in Argentina winning this summer's Copa America, scoring four times and providing five assists in seven appearances in the competition.