Lionel Messi heading for new deal?

Barcelona are reportedly preparing to hand Lionel Messi a new long-term contract.

The Argentine has scored 39 times in 42 games this season, but has drawn criticism in recent weeks for a perceived laziness in certain matches.

Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain have both been linked with moves for the former Ballon d'Or winner in recent weeks, but a new deal in Spain appears to be in the offing.

According to Mundo Deportivo, both parties are 85% of the way towards agreeing a new deal, which would see Messi become the best-paid player in the world.

The same report suggests that a new deal will be agreed before the World Cup this summer.