Could Chelsea FC sign Lionel Messi this summer?
By Vijay Vemu
Chelsea FC has been linked with a very unlikely move for the FC Barcelona superstar. Let’s see what exactly what all the talk is about.
It’s been a rough couple of weeks for Lionel Messi. First, he lost the Copa America Centenario final for the second time in a row against Chile. He missed a crucial penalty in the shootout and had to watch his former teammate Alexis Sanchez lift another trophy for Chile. Then he was charged with tax fraud along with his father and was sentenced to 21 months in prison. Messi is expected to appeal but according to numerous sources including TIME, he won’t be serving that sentence anyway.
“Spanish criminal law typically allows sentences shorter than two years to be suspended and carried out under probation for first-time, non-violent offenders, as Messi is.” reports the TIME article.
Even with that in mind, the rumors are swirling that Messi is considering leaving the Camp Nou to get away from all this. One team, he has been linked with is Chelsea FC.
Chelsea FC has been linked to Messi previously as the Blues have tried to sign him before. Chelsea FC owner has tried to get the signature of the Argentina forward before but has failed. But he is at it once again and according to British newspaper The Sun, he met with Messi’s father on his private yacht.
Of course, this means really doesn’t mean anything but it certainly sparks rumors. Even if Chelsea FC are given the green light to sign Messi, it will take a fortune to sign him. A big fortune. It will take a lot to get him to move from the club where has enjoyed the most success.
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First off, they would have to activate his release clause of over 100 million Euros. It would be a very hefty price to pay to get him here and you add that to the wages he would command and it would take a whole summer’s transfer money just to get him. With that being said, he would be a fantastic addition to the Blues if he were to join.
But right now, it looks like it’s not happening. Messi isn’t leaving FC Barcelona for a while and if he does, it’s likely back to Argentina so he can retire. Chelsea FC also has to consider the fact that Messi himself could reject a move, not just the club. All parties know that key fact as well.
It is a pipe dream for Chelsea FC to get a player like Lionel Messi but even with his off the field issues, this still remains a pipe dream. Things like this pop up from time to time but all the signs point to Messi remaining at the Nou Camp. So it may be time to put those rumors to rest.