PSG sign Barcelona legend Lionel Messi on a two-year contract

Lionel Messi was pictured holding a PSG shirt after completing his transfer to the French side

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has signed a two-year contract with Paris St-Germain.

The 34-year-contract old's contract also includes a third-year option.

Under La Liga's financial fair play rules, Barcelona - Messi's lone club - was unable to finance a new contract, forcing him to leave.

"I am impatient to start a new chapter of my career in Paris. The club and its vision are in perfect harmony with my ambitions," said the Argentina star.

"I know how talented the players and staff are here. I am determined to build, alongside them, something great for the club and for the fans. I can't wait to set foot on the Parc des Princes pitch."

A new 💎 in Paris!

PSGxMESSI ❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/scrp1su9a6

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) August 10, 2021

PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi said: "I am delighted that Lionel Messi has chosen to join Paris St-Germain and we are proud to welcome him to Paris, with his family.

"He did not hide his desire to continue to evolve at the highest level and to win trophies. The ambition of the club is of course identical.

"The addition of Leo to our world-class team confirms the relevance and success of our recruitment. Together with our great coach and his staff, I look forward to seeing our team make history for all of our supporters around the world."

Messi is widely regarded as one of the best players of all time, having scored 672 goals in 778 appearances for Barcelona, the club he joined when he was 13 years old.

He has won the Ballon d'Or a record six times and won 35 titles during his time at the Catalan club.

After the arrivals of Netherlands midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum, Spain defender Sergio Ramos, and Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, he becomes PSG's fourth free-transfer acquisition of the summer.

Morocco's Achraf Hakimi, a highly rated right-back, has also joined from Inter Milan.

Messi will be in a front three with Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, the two most expensive players in history.

On Wednesday at 10:00AM, PSG will hold a press conference in the Parc des Princes auditorium.

On Saturday, Messi might make his PSG debut against Strasbourg at home.