Barcelona will try to bring Lionel Messi back to the Camp Nou on loan if Inter Miami miss out on the MLS play-offs.

Miami's fabulous run of form following Messi's move Stateside has come to a shuddering halt recently, with the Argentine's absence through injury tying in with a four-game winless streak.

A 4-1 loss to Chicago Fire means the Florida outfit now need a mathematical miracle to extend their season beyond October 21 — and reports in Spain claim Barca are ready to pounce.

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Messi's next campaign in America would not start again until early March 2024, which has prompted speculation that a January loan could be feasible.

The 36-year-old has never hidden his sadness over how his legendary spell in Catalonia concluded, reluctantly departing for Paris Saint-Germain in August 2021 amid Barca's financial crisis.

Prior to signing for Miami, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner held talks with his old club about a return before financial constraints again got in the way. 

Miami owner Jorge Mas has previously acknowledged that Messi should have the chance to say goodbye to Barcelona fans properly.

However, it remains to be seen whether he would willingly sanction the temporary departure of his prized asset.

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In other news

Liverpool and Newcastle are both keeping a close eye on West Ham and England forward Jarrod Bowen, 26, according to talkSPORT.

The Telegraph say Manchester City will begin contract extension talks with 20-year-old scoring sensation Erling Haaland imminently to fend off interest from Real Madrid.

Spanish outlet Fichajes suggest City and Barcelona will fight it out for Paris Saint-Germain's Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons, 20, next summer.