Lionel Messi is 'ignoring calls' from former club Barcelona

Lionel Messi is reportedly 'ignoring calls' from Barcelona as speculation around his future continues to grow.

The 35-year-old's contract with Paris Saint-Germain is set to expire in the summer, with many wondering what his next move will be.

It's no secret Barcelona would love to bring Messi back to the Camp Nou, given the nature of his departure in 2021. The Catalan giants have attempted to rebuild but are still struggling.

According to Spanish publication Sport, Messi has been rejecting calls from a negotiator close to Barcelona president Joan Laporta.

Messi is said to favour a move to MLS franchise Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner is keen to play in the USA before his career comes to a close.

Miami executives have already spoken to Messi's father and agent, Jorge, according to The Athletic.

The Argentina international will not enter negotiations until after this winter's World Cup in Qatar has concluded.

Messi has confirmed the tournament, which starts on November 20, will be his last one as an active player.

He's been in fine form for PSG this season, scoring 12 goals and registering 13 assists in 17 appearances in all competitions.

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Barcelona, meanwhile, have crashed out of the Champions League and into the Europa League after a dismal showing in Group C.

Pressure is building on manager Xavi, with the Catalan giants also one point behind bitter Real Madrid in La Liga.

Ahead of their final group game against Viktoria Plzen on Tuesday, Xavi claimed his side were in their toughest group in years.

He said in his pre-match press conference: "We have nothing to play for, but this [Viktoria Plzen] is an important game. We want to end this competition well.

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"We lack maturity. We have a lot of youngsters and we've had the worst Champions League group in years.

"We've had injuries. They're not excuses, but that has hurt us. With respect to last season, we have a better squad and we have given a better image in Europe. But we haven't been up to the task."

Barcelona signed five players in the summer transfer window, including forwards Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski.

Topics: Lionel Messi, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain

Daniel Marland

Daniel is a social editor for SPORTbible after moving from the writing team. Nearly scored past Stormzy at Old Trafford once.

@DanMarland_