Will Lionel Messi join Barcelona on loan when MLS season finishes? Transfer rumour addressed as Inter Miami sweat on play-off spot

Lionel Messi has been linked with a stunning return to Barcelona when the MLS season comes to a close, with a loan transfer being speculated on.

WHAT HAPPENED?
The Argentine superstar walked away from Camp Nou back in the summer of 2021 when a contract that Barca could not afford to extend came to a close. Messi headed for Paris Saint-Germain at that stage and spent two years in France before hitting free agency once more.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE
He discussed a possible return to Barca with the club, but opted to take on an entirely new challenge when heading to the United States to link up with Inter Miami. He has inspired them to Leagues Cup glory, but an unfortunate injury has come at the worst possible time and Messi may not figure in the 2023 MLS play-offs.
DID YOU KNOW?
His season would come to a close on October 21 if that is the case, leaving him with a lengthy break through to the 2024 American season getting underway in February. It has been suggested that Messi could – like David Beckham, Thierry Henry and Robbie Keane before him – return to Europe on loan during the U.S. off season.

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WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has promised to give Messi an opportunity to say his goodbyes at Barcelona in a more fitting way, but SPORT claims no talks have taken place regarding a sensational loan switch.

WHAT HAPPENED?