Lionel Messi's representatives have slammed the recent rumours surrounding their client's future.
The Argentina international only has a contract with Paris Saint-Germain until the end of June, and there is currently widespread speculation surrounding his future in the French capital.
A recent report claimed that the 35-year-old is leaning towards leaving the French champions at the end of his deal for pastures new, with a return to Barcelona a serious possibility.
According to RMC Sport, Messi would have to accept a lower salary in order to stay at PSG, but the forward's entourage have hit out at the claims.
"It's strange to see news about the club wanting to lower Leo's salary, or not wanting to extend his contract circulate," read a statement from Messi's representatives, via Le Parisien.
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"We don't want to play this little game. This kind of fake news doesn't do Leo, nor his relationship with the club, any good. But perhaps that's exactly what some people want.
"We won't make a public statement, but not only is it clear that Leo and the club are negotiating, but the club want Leo to stay, as the manager (Christophe Galtier) recently said.
"It is therefore strange to see someone divulge something else to the press. What interest do they have in lying? It would be good to ask those that are doing it."
Saudi Arabian team Al-Hilal have allegedly offered Messi a contract that would see him become the highest-paid footballer in the world ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo.
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Meanwhile, there is also interest from the MLS in the shape of Inter Miami, but it is believed that he wants to stay in Europe for at least another season.
Barcelona are working to re-sign the Argentine, with the club's president Joan Laporta, vice-president Rafa Yuste and head coach Xavi all revealing a desire to bring him back to Camp Nou.
However, the Catalan outfit's financial issues could yet prevent them from securing what would be an emotional return to the club following his exit in the summer of 2021.
Messi has featured on 33 occasions for PSG during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring 18 goals and contributing 17 assists in the process.
Meanwhile, the World Cup winner has played 67 times for the French champions since his arrival, scoring 29 goals and registering 32 assists.
Matt Law
