When Lionel Messi bid farewell to Barcelona, the football world was left in shock. The legendary Argentine forward had been a one-club man his entire career, but financial constraints forced Barcelona to part ways with their star player. As Messi moved on to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), the focus quickly shifted to the mind-boggling cost of this transfer. So just how much did it cost?
The Transfer Fee
In order to acquire Messi, PSG had to pay a monumental transfer fee to Barcelona. While the exact figure hasn't been officially disclosed, various reports suggest that the fee amounted to around €25-30 million ($29-35 million USD). This might seem quite reasonable for a player of Messi's caliber, but the financial implications of the deal go far beyond the transfer fee alone.
The Salary and Bonuses
It's no secret that Messi is one of the highest-paid athletes in the world, and his move to PSG only solidifies his status. The Argentinian superstar signed a two-year contract with PSG, with the option for a third year. Over the course of these two years, Messi will reportedly earn a staggering €35 million ($41 million USD) net annually. Additionally, he stands to receive various performance-based bonuses, making his total compensation package reach unprecedented heights.
The Sign-On Bonus
As if Messi's salary wasn't eye-watering enough, PSG also had to pay him a substantial sign-on bonus. Reports indicate that the club handed Messi a lump sum payment of €30 million ($35 million USD) as a sign-on bonus. This significant amount showcases the lengths PSG was willing to go to secure the services of Messi.
The Agent Fees
Football transfers often come with agent fees, and Messi's move to PSG was no exception. It has been reported that Messi's father, Jorge Messi, who acts as his agent, will receive a cut of the transfer fee as his commission. The exact percentage remains unknown, but it is rumored to be around 10%, which could amount to several million euros.
The Overall Cost
Considering the transfer fee, the salary, the sign-on bonus, and agent fees, it's safe to say that the overall cost of Messi's move to PSG is exorbitant. While the exact amount is difficult to ascertain, it could be in the ballpark of €200-250 million ($235-293 million USD) over the course of his initial two-year contract.
The price tag of Messi's transfer to PSG is undoubtedly eye-catching. The financial resources required to secure his signature are astronomical, but PSG's determination to bring in one of the greatest footballers of all time has certainly paid off in terms of public interest and excitement. Only time will tell if Messi's move to PSG justifies its hefty cost, but for now, football fans around the world eagerly await his performances in the famous Parisian colors.
- Sources:
- 1. "Lionel Messi: Paris St-Germain sign Argentina forward after Barcelona exit" - BBC Sport
- 2. "Lionel Messi's Contract Leaked: PSG's Massive Salary, Bonuses Revealed" - Sports Illustrated
- 3. "Lionel Messi: Barcelona's 'deal in principle' with PSG superstar in doubt" - BBC Sport
- 4. "PSG will sign Messi only if some revenue is sold" - Reuters