Multiple reports, including from French news source Le Parisien, have implied that French giants Paris Saint-Germain want to test Barcelona's resolve by triggering Lionel Messi's €250m release clause. 

This would smash the current world transfer record of £86m, which was set in the summer by Real Madrid for Welshman Gareth Bale.

The Argentinian hasn't had the easiest of years this year. In 2013, he experienced injury problems with a recent hamstring problem, Barcelona's disappointing Champions League defeat and his own tax fraud allegations. These events have dampened his so far outstanding career. This has lead to more speculation over his possible move away from Spain.

PSG are one of the only clubs that are able to afford, arguably, the best player in world and with their long term project in full swing, it's no surprise that the French side would be interested in Messi. Financial Fair Play rules should stop PSG's endless spending. However, with many loopholes including sponsorship deals and TV rights, there are ways for the club to get around it.

Messi's bond with Barcelona has looked weaker than it has been in the past, especially with recent criticism of Barcelona director Javier Faus regarding the 26-year-old's contract renewal. The signing of Neymar in the summer has increased speculation over whether Messi is still happy at the club and if he should be threatened by his arrival. Without Messi this season, Barcelona have still performed well and are top of La Liga going into the winter break. Although, Neymar has stepped up in Messi's absence which could be a sign of what's to come.

If the sensational move does happen, PSG would have a formidable strike force. With Messi joining his former Barcelona team-mate Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who wouldn't have a problem playing with Messi again, his international team mate Ezequiel Lavezzi and Edison Cavani. That would make PSG a real dominant force in European football.

PSG seem to be the only realistic team out there to secure Messi's services. Fellow Argentinians and former team-mates of Messi, have urged the striker to join them in the Premier League at Manchester City.

Of course, it is a highly unlikely situation, even at this stage, but stranger things have happened in football, or have they?