Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is facing allegations of attempting to sway the outcome of the Ballon d'Or in favour of Lionel Messi.

Le Monde reports that PSG officials tried to influence Pascal Ferre, the former editor-in-chief of France Football and Ballon d'Or organiser, by offering various favours.

The club is accused of seeking Ferre's support with the aim of securing the Ballon d'Or for Messi during his tenure in Paris. The investigation is said to be centred around Jean-Martial Ribes, the former director of communications at PSG, according to Le Monde.

A report by the General Inspectorate of the National Police from November 2023 says: "Ribes requested to obtain tickets for PSG football matches by journalists, politicians, elected officials, members of ministerial cabinets or the presidency, artists."

Despite any attempts by PSG to influence Ballon d'Or officials, Lionel Messi did not secure the coveted trophy during his time at the club.

Messi, now with Inter Miami in MLS, clinched the Ballon d'Or for his exceptional 2022-23 season, notably leading Argentina to victory in the World Cup in Qatar.

The investigation into PSG's alleged actions is ongoing. Meanwhile, PSG is set to resume action in the French Cup round of 64 on Sunday.