Lionel Messi is in talks with Saudi side Al-Ahli about a sensational move to the Middle East later this year with the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star seeing his Inter Miami contract expire in December
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami(Image: Getty Images)
Lionel Messi is reportedly in discussions with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli regarding a stunning transfer to the Middle East later this year. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain legend's current Inter Miami deal runs out in December.
As things stand, there's been no indication of an extension being agreed. This has sparked speculation that Messi could depart the MLS outfit in 2026, with several clubs monitoring the situation.
His former club Barcelona have been persistently linked with a reunion, as president Joan Laporta has made no secret of his ambition to bring the Argentine maestro back to the Nou Camp. However, it seems a financially rewarding switch to Saudi Arabia could also materialise as a viable option for Messi.
French publication L'Equipe reports that Saudi outfit Al-Ahli are keen on securing his signature and have allegedly been working for 'weeks' to persuade the eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient to relocate to the Middle East.
Inter Miami remain optimistic about retaining his services, with co-owner Jorge Mas recently expressing his ambition to keep the 2022 World Cup champion until at least next season.
In an interview with ESPN, Mas revealed: "I previously said that my wish, my dream would be for the number 10 to inaugurate our new stadium in March.
"This is a decision that rests on Messi. We wish for Messi to finish his career here. I said a few months ago that we should have news in the summer about that but hopefully it will be as soon as possible.
"But I am optimistic because we have done everything possible for Leo to feel at home, to feel comfortable. I always said that he is a competitive animal, he wants to win.
"I hope we can raise many trophies together here at Inter Miami in the coming years. Here, we're just waiting to be able to give the fans the good news about Lionel Messi."
He continued: "We are a little selfish, we would like to see more trophies and obviously with Messi here. I won't speak for Messi, but I speak for me and the club. Lionel from day one has said he wants to compete and win.
"He is a competitive animal. Obviously we want to assure that we have the best roster to compete at the highest levels. We'd have to ask Leo, but I think he knows we are doing everything possible.
"There is no tool that the league provides us that we have not used to better this roster: signing young players, finding other cracks. For next year, find another star player because we have the space in the roster.
"From our part, there is not much missing. There is no rush, we don't need to do it today or tomorrow, but soon we will know Messi's decision and hopefully we remain together for many more years."
A switch to Saudi Arabia would reunite Messi with his long-standing adversary Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al-Nassr. The former Manchester United forward's own destiny had been uncertain, but he penned a staggering fresh contract running through to 2027.