Transfer Centre

Lionel Messi, Neymar to both seek Paris Saint-Germain exits this summer?

By Ben Sully | 14 February 2023

Lionel Messi, Neymar to both seek PSG exits this summer?

Paris Saint-Germain stars Lionel Messi and Neymar could both reportedly leave the French champions at the end of the current season.

Lionel Messi and Neymar are both reportedly prepared to leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer.

With his current contract set to expire at the end of the season, Messi's future at the club has been the topic of widespread speculation in recent months.

The 35-year-old was not keen to discuss his future until after the 2022 World Cup, where he guided Argentina to the famous trophy.

PSG director Luis Campos has previously stated that Lionel Messi is in discussions with the French champions over a new deal.

However, the Argentine has also been linked with a return to Barcelona and there has also been interest from MLS franchise Inter Miami and Saudi Arabian clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr.

Lionel Messi in action for Paris Saint-Germain on November 2, 2022 © Reuters

In contrast to his PSG teammate, Neymar is still under contract until June 2025 with an option for a further year, but it appears his long-term future at the club is also in doubt.

According to Foot Mercato, Neymar and Messi are both considering leaving the Parc des Princes this summer.

Messi will be free to leave when his current contract expires in June, while Neymar could decide to leave following a breakdown of his relationship with his teammates.

Tensions are said to be high between Neymar and Kylian Mbappe after the pair fell out over penalty-taking duties earlier this season.

Neymar was also reportedly involved in a heated dressing room clash with his teammates Vitinha and Hugo Ekitike following Saturday's 3-1 defeat to Monaco.

Neymar in action for Paris Saint-Germain on October 8, 2022 © Reuters

While PSG are looking to agree a new deal with Messi, there is a belief that they are willing to allow Neymar to depart.

The Qatari ownership are allegedly growing tired of Neymar, and as a result, they could be open to offers for the Brazil international.

Although their long-term futures with PSG are in doubt, Messi and Neymar are expected to form a forward partnership for this evening's Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.

Messi has scored 15 goals and provided 14 assists in 25 appearances this term, while Neymar has 17 goals and 16 assists to his name after 27 games.

Mbappe, meanwhile, is expected to start the first leg against Bayern on the bench after missing the last three games through injury.