Former Barcelona star and Argentine captain Lionel Messi has signed a 2-year deal with an option for a 3rd worth £25m per year after tax, at French side Paris Saint-Germain.
The 34-year-old was set to sign a new five-year contract at Barcelona but arrived in Paris on Tuesday to complete PSG deal.
According to Messi, “Everything about the club matches my football ambitions”.
Messi will wear the No 30 shirt for PSG, which was the number he wore on his Barcelona debut in 2003.
The 34-year-old was set to extend his 21-year stay at Barcelona by signing a new five-year deal this summer, but the club announced on Thursday that “financial and structural obstacles” meant the contract could not be fulfilled.
On signing for PSG, 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, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes.”
PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi added: “I am delighted that Lionel Messi has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain and we are proud to welcome him and his family to Paris.
“He has made no secret of his desire to continue competing at the very highest level and winning trophies, and naturally our ambition as a club is to do the same.
“The addition of Leo to our world-class squad continues a very strategic and successful transfer window for the club.
“Led by our outstanding coach and his staff, I look forward to the team making history together for our fans all around the world.”
Sky
