Only four clubs could sign Messi: PSG, Man City, Chelsea and Inter

The list of clubs in the market who could realistically satisfy Lionel Messi would hardly fill up one hand. Leaving to one side the clubs with tycoons looking for impossible deals, there are only four football clubs who could look after the Barcelona star both economically and in football terms. 

If we start with the point that his current release clause is €250million, the applicants for his signature can only come from a very select group. 

Nobody doubts that the entity in the best position is Paris Saint-Germain. The French club have everything they need to attract the star players they want. And there would be none better than the best player in the world to help them on their final mission: winning the Champions League.

Since the arrival of Nasser al Khelaifi, rumours that PSG want Messi have been constant. The Paris club admit it would be a pleasure to have him in their ranks and they have the money to make the transfer and pay the wages. All that they're missing is the player's willingness to open negotiations.

There is no bigger market at the moment than the Premier League, though. Big clubs and huge budgets have focused football's attention on England. Two names there are on the the lips of everyone.

The first is Manchester City. Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan's millions have still not translated into as many titles as expected. With Txiki Begiristain fronting their current project and Messi's good friend Sergio Aguero on the pitch, it wouldn't be strange to see City go all out if Messi came on the market. They have the economic strength.

Chelsea, managed by Jose Mourinho, is the other option. It's difficult to imagine the Portuguese and Messi together, but history shows when Roman Abramovich wants a player it's rare he doesn't get his man. London has a certain pull as well.

Financial problems have hit Italian football. However, the love that Messi has for the city Milan is no secret. With Moratti as president of Inter, the connection is easy to make. Now, with the arrival of Erick Thohir and his money, they may have the money to make a move for Messi. 

Bayern Munich are another club who, money-wise, could tackle this operation. But, until now, those who run the Bavarian club, nor Pep Guardiola, have hinted that a deal for Messi would be possible. the range of options is extemely limited.