A report from AFP released on Tuesday claimed that Messi’s proposed move to the Middle East is a “done deal.” Al-Hilal thought to be ready to hand the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner a record-breaking contract. Messi’s current contract at PSG is due to expire this summer. It has been reported that he has already decided against signing an extension.

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Lionel Messi’s father has angrily denied reports claiming that the Paris Saint-Germain star has agreed a transfer to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. He has taken to social media to rubbish claims his son has an agreement in place with Al-Hilal. “There is absolutely nothing with any club for next year. Once the season is over it will be time to analyse and see what is there, and then make a decision. There are always rumours and many use the name of Lionel to gain notoriety but there’s only one truth and we can assure you that there is nothing [agreed] with anyone,” he said.

“Neither verbal, nor signed, nor agreed, and there will not be until the end of the season. It seems to me a lack of respect… there are those who consciously and deliberately deceive, without providing any proof of their claims, and want to turn any malicious rumour into news, directed by someone in favour of their own interests. They would have to explain why they don’t contrast the information. They don’t want the truth to ruin their ‘news’.”

Messi returned to PSG training on Monday after reportedly seeing his two-week ban lifted by the club. The 35-year-old stirred up controversy after taking an unapproved trip to Saudi Arabia as part of his role as a tourism ambassador after a recent defeat to Lorient but issued a public apology to diffuse the situation.