Report: Messi's PSG contract talks unhindered by Saudi Arabia links

Paris Saint-Germain are anticipating talks with Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, in the French capital before the end of January to conclude an agreement over a new contract for the World Cup winner, ESPN’s Julien Laurens reports.

PSG and Messi’s father reportedly had positive discussions prior to Argentina’s victorious run in Qatar. An agreement in principle was then reached in December for the 35-year-old attacker to extend his terms until 2024. However, Laurens now understands the structure and length of the contract are yet to be determined.

Messi reportedly prefers to stay at the Parc des Princes despite interest from Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami and Thursday’s links with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. Al Hilal – cross-city rivals of Cristiano Ronaldo’s new club Al Nassr – are willing to offer Messi a deal worth $350 million per year to bring him to Riyadh, according to Mundo Deportivo’s Fabio Marchi.

But Messi won’t be joining Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, sources told Laurens, and both the player and PSG remain positive about reaching an agreement.

The artful Argentine returned to club action in Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Angers. Messi orchestrated and finished a beautiful team move for Les Parisiens’ second goal of the game.