23 May 2023 , 08:21
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Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez has offered to cut his salary in an effort to help Aston Villa complete a sensational move for Lionel Messi.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or has a big decision to make over his future this summer. Messi is set to leave Paris Saint-German after a very public falling out with the French giants following an unsanctioned trip to Saudi Arabia.
Former club Barcelona continue to be linked with an emotional reunion, whilst it is suggested that he has been given a lucrative offer to join long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi. His international teammate Martinez has weighed in on his future and joked that he would be willing to make sacrifices to take Messi to the Midlands.
Speaking to ESPN, the Villa stopper said: “If [PSG fans] whistle [at Messi], I would bring him to Villa. Come here, we’ll feed you mates and I do barbecue every weekend.
“I make people make little flags and that’s it, they have a good time … I cut my salary, we do everything possible.”
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Messi, 35, is set to depart PSG as a back-to-back Ligue 1 winner. Christophe Galtier’s side are on the verge of claiming yet another title with just one point needed from their final two matches of the campaign.
Emi Martinez is attempting to tempt Lionel Messi to Aston Villa (Getty Images)Where do you think Messi will play next season? Share your predictions in the comments below
Messi has more than played in another successful title tilt this term. He has 20 goals and as many assists to his name in all competitions.
Whilst Martinez is keen to welcome his Argentine teammate to the Premier League, it seems more likely that Messi will end up back at the Camp Nou. Catalan boss Xavi and the club’s vice president Rafa Yuste has claimed that decision still lies with the forward.
"It's up in the air," the former said when asked if a deal was close. "It depends on many things.
“There is not much more I can say. Leo is a spectacular footballer. He is a friend. From there, it depends on many things, but above all on his intentions and what he wants."
Meanwhile, Yuste said: "I want him to come back, that's the truth. After everything he gave this club, coming through the academy, starting his career here... it's a beautiful story and beautiful stories have to have happy endings. If everything goes well -- and even though he has to make the final decision -- I hope he returns. We would all be really happy."
Messi might not be the only big name forward to leave PSG this summer. Ex-Barcelona teammate Neymar has also been linked with an exit. It has been claimed that he now wants to leave the Parc des Princes after protests from the club’s supporters outside of his home and the club’s Paris headquarters.