Newcastle United learn shock chances of signing Lionel Messi after Barcelona suspension

Speculation of Lionel Messi leaving Paris Saint-Germain this summer is building after the French club suspended the World Cup winner for two weeks following an unauthorised two-day trip to Saudi Arabia.

The Argentine legend, who is a tourism ambassador for the Gulf state, made the visit on Monday after being welcomed by Saudi Arabia minister of tourism Ahmed al Khateeb.

And according to French newspaper L’Equipe, Messi travelled without PSG’s permission so have decided to ban the 35-year-old from playing or training with the team, and docked his wages.

As a result, Messi will Ligue 1 matches against Troyes and Ajaccio but may return for the match against Auxerre on May 21. The report adds PSG will not activate a one-year extension in his contract, meaning he’ll become a free agent at the end of the season.

Naturally, given the wealth of Newcastle United’s Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia owners, a move to St James’ Park is tipped as one of Messi’s potential destinations.

A Casinos En Ligne spokesperson said: “Lionel Messi and PSG’s journey looks like it is coming to an end after the Argentine was suspended for an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia.

“Barcelona are the 2/1 favourites to seal a fairytale return for Messi this summer, while he is 3/1 to hang up his boots by September.

“Messi is yet to play in the Premier League, but the World Cup winner is 10/1 to join Newcastle and 16/1 to sign for Chelsea.”