Lionel Messi has ended speculation about his future — by revealing he is joining David Beckham's Inter Miami. 

Rumours had been rife that the World Cup winner was destined to return to former club Barcelona or make a money-spinning switch to Saudi Arabia. 

But he has opted to head to the United States despite Miami, who are co-owned by Manchester United and England legend Becks, being bottom of Major League Soccer's Eastern Conference.

Messi, 35, will become the star attraction Stateside when his Paris Saint-Germain deal expires later this month. 

Read on for more about the Argentina superstar's shock decision and reaction as what appeared set to be a lengthy transfer saga reached a swift conclusion. 

June 8: Pique aims Barca dig

Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has aimed a sly dig at his old club after they failed to secure the return of Messi.

The retired 36-year-old said: "It makes me laugh now though because we [Pique, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba] have all gone and we still have this fair play issue. Who else has to leave? 

"In theory, we were the cause of [the financial problems] with our salaries. We have all gone. We are no longer there — and they still can't sign players."

June 7: Lost in Paris

Messi has revealed he was unhappy during his two years at PSG ahead of his departure for Inter Miami.

The World Cup winner told Mundo Deportivo and Sport: "I had two years where I was so unhappy on a personal level that I didn't enjoy it. I had that month that was spectacular for me because of winning the World Cup, but apart from that, it was a difficult period for me. 

"I want to rediscover joy, enjoy my family, my children, the day-to-day — and that's why the decision for Barcelona didn't happen."

June 7: Barca wish Messi luck

Barcelona have wished Messi luck at Inter Miami after the Argentine rejected a return to Catalonia to move to MLS.

The club statement said: "President Laporta understood and respected Messi's decision to want to compete in a league with fewer demands, further away from the spotlight and the pressure he has been subject to in recent years. 

"Both Joan Laporta and Jorge Messi also agreed to work together to promote a proper tribute from Barca fans to honour a footballer who has been, is, and always will be beloved by Barca."

June 7: Messi speaks

Messi has confirmed he is joining MLS side Inter Miami when his PSG contract runs out on June 30. 

He said: "I made the decision that I'm going to Miami. I still haven't closed it 100%. 

"I'm missing some things but we decided to continue on the path. If the Barcelona thing didn't work out, I wanted to leave Europe, get out of the spotlight and think more of my family."

June 7: Messi 'decides' on Miami switch

Spanish journalist Guillem Balague reports Messi has decided to join Inter Miami.

Balague said: "He wanted to remain in Europe for another season but, after no satisfactory offers were received, he had the straight choice between Inter Miami or Al-Hilal.

"Messi was ultimately tempted to Miami for a variety of reasons, including lifestyle and a deal with big brands that extends beyond football."