Report: Lionel Messi joining Paris Saint-Germain increases likelihood Kylian Mbappe signs long-term extension

It was widely believed that Kylian Mbappe would leave Paris Saint-Germain next summer when his contract expires. However, it appears things could change. 

According to ESPN’s Julien Laurens, PSG is eager to sign Lionel Messi, who won’t return to Barcelona due to financial problems at the club. Laurens adds that if The Parisians land the Argentinian, it will increase the likelihood Mbappe signs a long-term extension with the club.

PSG president Nasser Al Khelaifi said earlier this summer that he was “not worried” about Mbappe leaving the club. However, the French international has been linked to several clubs over the past several months, including Premier League side Liverpool. 

Mbappe has spent the last four seasons in Paris after beginning his career with Monaco. In 91 starts, he has 90 goals and 28 assists.

If Messi were to join PSG, he would reunite with former Barcelona teammate Neymar and join coach Mauricio Pochettino, who is also from Argentina. 

Adding Messi and holding onto Mbappe would make Paris nearly unbeatable in Ligue 1. The Parisians have won the league seven times since the 2012-13 season. They placed second last season.