PSG 'offer Lionel Messi a contract' in an audacious bid to bring the Argentina star to France

Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly offered Lionel Messi a contract as they look to bring the 34-year-old to the French top-flight.

The Argentine superstar, 34, attempted to leave the Nou Camp last summer in extraordinary circumstances but decided against the move due to the exit clause in his contract.

However, the six-time Ballon d'Or winner became a free agent last month after his contract at the club expired. As a result, PSG are looking to capitalise.

It had been reported earlier this week that Messi had agreed terms on a new contract with Barcelona.

The deal would keep the Argentina star at the club for another two years - June 2023.

However, according to AS, Paris Saint-Germain have thrown a spanner in the works and offered Messi a contract.

The French club are hoping the lucrative deal will lure the 34-year-old to Ligue 1 next season.

Messi's future has been hanging in the balance ever since he told the club by fax of his desire to leave last summer.

Barcelona will reportedly have to free up £170m in wages if Messi does put pen to paper on a new deal with the club.

However, Barcelona find themselves cash-strapped as they try to cope with the financial issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Nevertheless, they have already brought in some new faces during the summer transfer window.

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero, Lyon forward Memphis Depay and City defender Eric Garcia will be arriving on free transfers and Barca also triggered Real Betis star Emerson Royal's £7.8million release clause.

Regardless of the offers presented to Messi, the 34-year-old has said he will stay focused on the Copa America first.