Is Lionel Messi set for a return to Barcelona? Inter Miami star linked with his old club as part of a temporary loan

After Inter Miami's play-off hopes were dashed with a 1-0 loss to Cincinnati on Saturday - rumours surfaced as it relates to what could be next for Lionel Messi over the winter.

Inter Miami's inability to secure a play-off berth means Messi will have a lengthy off-season that won't see him return to action until the MLS (Major League Soccer) resumes in February - leading to speculation as to whether Messi could join his old club Barcelona on a temporary loan deal in January.

Messi's two-and-a-half year deal with Inter Miami was a massive coup for the United States' top-flight football competition - with the all-time great bringing immediate attention and increased revenue to a league that is oftentimes seen as an afterthought on the world stage.

He has delivered and then some since joining the franchise co-owned by David Beckham, netting 12 goals in 13 league and cup matches to date.

For those predicting Messi to return to European club football in the new year, the Argentina international is 5/2 with Sky Bet to be in a Barcelona jersey prior to February 3 - followed by Manchester City, Inter Milan and Juventus who are much wider in the market at 20/1, 25/1 and 25/1 respectively.

Sky Bet odds for Lionel Messi 'Transfer window Specials - to sign before February 3':

Manchester City 20/1

Inter Milan 25/1