Lionel Messi's future has now taken a surprise new twist after his father reportedly met with a certain club in recent days.
The Argentine has been linked with moves to MLS side Inter Miami and Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal since the 2022 FIFA World Cup ended.
Read: Argentina boss: What is required for Messi to make 2026 World Cup
It has been claimed that both clubs are willing to make lucrative offers in order to secure the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner's signature.
While there were also initial suggestions a potential return to Barcelona could take place, the 35-year-old's father Jorge Messi, who also acts as his agent, said earlier in February that his son is unlikely to return to the Catalan giants.
However, just days later, Catalunya Radio now reports that Jorge and Barca president Joan Laporta met up over the past week to discuss a number of topics, including a potential return for the playmaker.
The veteran footballer's current contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires at the end of this season, and reports suggest that the player and the French club are still struggling to agree terms on a renewal, so he could soon be available as a free agent.
It is further claimed that, in the meeting between the agent and Laporta, they also spoke about potentially putting up a statue of Messi outside the Camp Nou to honour the player for all his achievements during his time there.
The two parties also reportedly discussed the recent comments made by Messi's brother Matias, who claimed that the Spanish giants must sack Laporta if they want the forward to return.
Read: Fati confirms his future plans amid transfer talk
Matias eventually apologised for what he said, and the Barca chief accepted his apology.
It remains to be seen if Messi still has a strained relationship with Laporta, as has often been reported following his shock departure from the Blaugrana in 2021, while the club's dire financial situation could prove another stumbling block in the superstar's potential homecoming.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
WATCH: