JAKARTA - Lionel Messi held a farewell press conference on Sunday afternoon at Camp Nou. He confirmed his departure from Barcelona after the club said it could no longer afford the Argentine's high salary.

French newspaper L'Equipe later reported on the same day that Messi would travel to the French capital at the latest on Monday to carry out a medical and finalize his deal with Qatar Sports Investment's club.

So far, Messi has not confirmed anything regarding the news of his move to Les Parisiens. He says his plan is to keep playing as long as possible.

La Pulga also added that he still has ambitions to win another Champions League trophy.

"As long as I continue to be competitive and as long as my body responds (I will continue to play)," he told a news conference.

"As long as I can, I will continue to compete," he continued.

Previously, a number of sources told ESPN that PSG had spoken to Messi's representatives. They are preparing to offer the Argentina captain a three-year contract.

PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino also confirmed that the 34-year-old may be recruited by his team.

Sources have told ESPN that negotiations with Messi's father and agent, Jorge, are set to take place today.

The deal with Messi will affect Kylian Mbappe's future at PSG and Paul Pogba's at Manchester United, the source said.

ESPN revealed that PSG had contacted Messi on Thursday. It is known, PSG sporting director Leonardo and chairman Nasser al Khelaifi were directly involved in the discussion about Messi.

Messi's lawyers have also reportedly arrived in Nice, France, to hold talks over the transfer and finalize the details. Messi's father, Jorge, followed this Sunday.

Sources say the arrival of Messi could push Mbappe into signing a long-term contract with PSG, ruining Real Madrid's dreams of signing the 22-year-old on a free transfer next summer.

The arrival of Messi will also end PSG's intention to sign Paul Pogba from Manchester United.


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