Everything indicated that Lionel Messi would extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain beyond the summer of 2023. However, the Argentina captain is reportedly not willing to stay put at the Ligue 1 champions.

Messi departed Barcelona back in 2021 and signed for PSG on a free transfer to re-join forces with former teammate, Neymar.

According to Spanish journalist Gerard Romero, the Argentine forward has his doubts about renewing his contract with PSG and he is still considering his options.

"As of today, Leo Messi's intention is not to extend his contract with PSG and, therefore, not to renew his deal with the Paris-based side," Romero revealed.

"The victory in the World Cup in Qatar has changed his way of thinking, as he values other things for the immediate future."

World Cup triumph key to Messi's decision

Winning the World Cup in Qatar seems to have been the reason behind Messi's change of mentality. Once the only pending career objective had been achieved, the Argentine star would no longer value the sporting aspect so much, but would now take into account other factors.

Once he had achieved the feat of winning the World Cup, winning more titles in France or even another Champions League would not motivate him enough.

Messi changes his mind and leaves PSG

Although in recent weeks everything seemed to indicate that Messi was going to reach an agreement with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi to stay in Paris, the situation has taken a radical U-turn. It has to be noted that his contract expires on June 30.

Messi and his possible return to Barcelona

Barcelona are now considered as the main candidates to sign Messi. Romero mentioned that the Argentine is "valuing other kinds of things", which means that he could agree to return to what was his club and his home for so many years.

However, one of the conditions that would have to be met for his return to be possible would be for Messi to give up a large part of his salary in order to adapt to the current situation of the Catalan side and their wage bill.

Other clubs such as Inter Miami, Newell's Old Boys and even Al-Hilal are also interested in landing the 35-year-old star.