Lionel Messi has completed a sensational move to Paris Saint-Germain on a two-year deal after leaving Barcelona following 21 incredible years.
The Argentina captain became a free agent this summer after his contract with Barcelona expired. The club was expected to re-sign him after positive initial talks between all parties but LaLiga’s financial regulations made it impossible.
On Tuesday, August 10, Messi flew from Spain to France to sign a two-year contract which includes an option to extend by a year and gives the forward a net salary of about €35m (£29.6m) with bonuses factored in.
According to Mail Online, the deal will see Messi earn £1million a week, and he will wear the number 30 shirt, his first Barcelona number.
A statement on PSG’s official Twitter account said: “Paris Saint-Germain is delighted to announce the signing of Leo Messi on a two-year contract with an option of a third year. The six-time Ballon d’Or winner is justifiably considered a legend of the game and a true inspiration for those of all ages inside and outside football.
“The signing of Leo reinforces Paris Saint-Germain’s aspirations as well as providing the club’s loyal fans with not only an exceptionally talented squad, but also moments of incredible football in the coming years.”
Upon competing his move, Messi said: ‘I am excited to begin a new chapter of my career at Paris Saint-Germain. Everything about the club matches my football ambitions. I know how talented the squad and the coaching staff are here. I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans.’
The Argentina superstar will be officially presented as a Paris Saint-Germain player on Wednesday August 11.
Messi joined Barcelona as a 15-year-old and went on to make his senior debut in 2004 at just 16 years old, featuring 778 times for the club in total across his 21-year-career.
During that time Messi became Barcelona’s record scorer with 672 goals including 120 Champions League goals and a record 474 LaLiga goals. He also managed 10 LaLiga titles, four Champions Leagues and seven Copa del Reys.
Messi’s individual contribution also saw him claim the European Golden Shoe award for the continent’s top scorer on six occasions.