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Lionel Messi reportedly told Kylian Mbappe he deserves 'a real winning project' in an apparent dig at PSG before joining Inter Miami, as intense speculation surrounds the French superstar's future.

The explosive revelation comes from Spanish outlet Defensa Central, who claim the Argentine confided to Mbappe his wish for him to join Barcelona instead of Real Madrid.

But Messi ultimately implored the 24-year-old to play for a club who will compete for the biggest trophies in European football.

'I prefer that you go to Barça,' Messi said. 'But if you want to go to Madrid, do it, you deserve a real winning project.'

With five Ligue 1 titles and three French Cups, winning has not been the issue for Mbappe in Paris.