Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has this week been tipped for what would be a shock return to the club in the near future.

The info comes courtesy of journalist Alex Candal, who also happens to be the individual who broke the news that Messi intended to join Inter Miami from Paris Saint-Germain.

Speaking during an appearance on DSports late on Monday night, Candal provided an insight into all of the Argentine’s current mindset, plans for the summer, and Barcelona’s stance on the transfer.

Messi, for his part, is understood to have made clear:

“I can’t retire from football without playing at the new Camp Nou.”

Nothing short of adamant regarding his claims, Candal then went on to add:

“Who was the first one to say that Leo Messi was joining Inter Miami? Me… or not? And now I’m telling you: He’s coming back to Barcelona.”

The brass at Barcelona, meanwhile, are already said to have begun exploring the financial parameters which would need to be put in place to make a deal a reality.

Messi’s fit in Hansi Flick’s all-action system is even being discussed.

One to keep an eye on ahead of the summer transfer window…