INTER MILAN have revealed they attempted to land Lionel Messi when he left Barcelona – but could not compete with PSG’s financial muscle.
Europe’s biggest clubs were put on high alert during the summer of 2021 as one of football’s greatest players suddenly became available.
Barcelona’s financial issues left Messi with no choice but to leave the Nou Camp, leading to the star giving a teary press conference as he confirmed his departure.
PSG quickly emerged as the favourite – but other teams had been eyeing the Argentine.
Italian giants Inter were among the those clubs and even held talks with Messi. But Inter legend and club vice-president Javier Zanetti told DAZN that ultimately they could not compete with their European rivals.
He said: “I was surprised when he [Messi] left Barcelona.
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“Realistically, we cannot compete with PSG or Premier League clubs, but due to our rapport, we spoke when there was a chance.”
It quickly became clear that Messi’s was bound for the Parc de Princes to link up with Kylian Mbappe and Neymar.
The 35-year-old fell short of his very high standards in his opening season at Paris Saint-Germain.
He scored six goals and registered 14 assists in 26 league games.
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But this season has seen the forward return to his irresistible best and he is already in double figures for both goals and assists.
Whatever he achieves at PSG this season, it is unlikely to top Messi’s incredible feat in Qatar.
Going into the 2022 World Cup knowing it was going to be his last chance to win football’s most coveted trophy, he was consistently brilliant and dragged Argentina into the final.
He was then the difference maker in a bonkers final as the South American side saw off France on penalties.
Messi is currently in discussions with PSG over a new contract with his deal running out in the summer.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
