Paris Saint-Germain has been heavily linked with current FC Barcelona star Lionel Messi. The links were even responded to by PSG sporting director Leonardo earlier this month, to which he downplayed the rumors for the moment. But PSG may face one significant dilemma if it aspires to go all out to sign Messi next year.
A report from the Spanish-based outlet Deportes Cuatro noted the Messi links to PSG. The Argentine will become a free agent next year, but this potential free transfer move for PSG will come with one roadblock.
The report made mention that it would be “impossible” for PSG to add Messi while keeping both Neymar and Kylian Mbappe due to financial fair play regulations. PSG would not have to post a transfer fee to acquire Messi but will need to pay up a hefty amount for his yearly salary contract.
Messi is reportedly earning €60 million per year with his current Barcelona contract while both Neymar (€36 million) and Mbappe (€20 million) are earning hefty amounts as well. However, Neymar has been leaning towards signing a new contract extension deal while PSG aspires to come to terms on one with Mbappe.
Thus, this would certainly drive up the wage bill as if PSG signs Messi and hands out extension deals to its two current star forwards, the club would arguably have three of the highest-paid players in the sport today.
As mentioned, PSG would have to wiggle out of FFP regulations if it aspires to create this super team trio. Current FFP regulations call for clubs being allowed to spend €5 million more than they earn over a set assessment period, or around €30 million if the club’s owner meets the rules to cover the amount. But due to the recent coronavirus shutdown, UEFA has elected to ease up with FFP restrictions with the €30 million amount being loosened up a bit.
It remains to be seen how PSG may attempt to work around the restrictions and whether it may be forced to sell multiple players in order to afford this potential trio.
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