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PSG finally signed Lionel Messi during the summer transfer window, ending constant speculation linking them with the attacker for several months. With the Argentine in their ranks, the Parisians can boast of having arguably the greatest footballer in history. But has it really worked out for them?
Lionel Messi's struggles in France are quite obvious. The former Barcelona captain is yet to score in the French league despite making five appearances so far. He hasn't even been able to make an assist. Even though he's scored three in the Champions League, his overall chemistry with the team is very poor.
It goes without saying that PSG have taken some steps backward since luring the Argentine to the Parc des Princes. There's an imbalance in the team right now and their overall output is not inspiring.
For many indications, this is a transfer that should've been avoided. With Neymar and Kylian Mbappe on the flanks, the Parisians didn't really need Lionel Messi's services. In fact, it would've made more sense to divert that effort into strengthening other vital areas in the squad.
On that note, take a look at five players PSG could've signed instead of the Argentine.
#5 Harry Kane
Neymar and Kylian Mbappe remain unstoppable on the flanks. If PSG wanted to strengthen their attack, the ideal move would've been to go for a world-class striker. One player who would be an upgrade to Mauro Icardi is Tottenham Hotspur sharpshooter Harry Kane.
The Englishman needs no introduction. He's been one of the finest finishers in the world over the last couple of years. He has consistently provided answers in front of goal for club and country. He was the top scorer (23) and assist provider (14) in the Premier League last season.
It goes without saying Kane has a great relationship with PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino. Coupling that with the fact that the striker wanted to leave Spurs during the summer, the Parisians could've stood a great chance of prising him away.
#4 Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland is another player PSG could've signed to bolster their attacking options instead of Lionel Messi. The Norwegian is playing at an incredible level at the moment. There's no doubt he'd greatly complement Neymar and Kylian Mbappe in the attack.
Haaland has recorded 13 goals and four assists to his name in nine appearances for Borussia Dortmund in all competitions this season. The striker finished as the Champions League's top scorer last term with 10 goals. He concluded the campaign with 41 goals and 12 assists across all formats.
#3 Paul Pogba
PSG's mission to claim the Champions League requires them to have the best possible options in every position on the pitch. As it stands, their midfield doesn't seem very good for their aspirations.
Without taking anything away from Idrissa Gueye, Ander Herrera and Leandro Paredes, only Marco Verratti is a top-class midfielder in PSG's squad presently. Instead of signing Lionel Messi, it would've been more sensible to add a player like Paul Pogba to their ranks.
The Frenchman is a player for the biggest stages. He put up gritty performances with grit and was decisive for France in the 2018 World Cup and the UEFA Nations League.
Already in the final year of his contract with Manchester United, the midfielder could've been signed on a cut-price deal. It is obvious that his addition would've improved the team more than Lionel Messi.
#2 Eduardo Camavinga
Eduardo Camavinga is another player who could bolster PSG's options in the center of the the pitch. The Parisians were linked with a swoop for the French international during the summer transfer window. However, they ended up missing out on his signature.
Unlike Lionel Messi, Camavinga already has good football experience in Ligue 1. The 19-year-old was one of the brightest midfielders in the French top flight last season. He put up spectacular displays for Rennes, earning the attention of several clubs.
Real Madrid acted swiftly to secure the services of the Frenchman, snapping him up in a deal worth €31 million on deadline day. So far this season, Camavinga has made 11 appearances for Los Blancos, recording one goal and one assist to his name.
#1 Jules Kounde
PSG signed Sergio Ramos during the summer transfer window but that doesn't seem to be enough. Although the Spaniard's experience could be of great help, he can't be trusted to be at the top level every week due to his age. In fact, he is yet to make his debut appearance since switching to Paris. It is no surprise, recalling that he suffered a similar fate at Real Madrid last season.
Instead of adding Lionel Messi, it could've made more sense to sign a young, energetic and reliable option at the heart of the defense. Sevilla's Jules Kounde could've been a decent option to improve their backline.
The Frenchman has been one of the top centre-backs in La Liga over the last couple of years. The fact that many elite clubs, including Manchester United, Barcelona and Chelsea, are interested in the defender says a lot about his level.
