Lent.az
Lionel Messi is in talks with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli about a sensational move to the Middle East at the end of this year. The Barcelona and PSG star's contract with Inter Miami expires in December.
There is currently no indication of a contract extension.
Lent.az reports, citing foreign media, that this has opened the door for Messi to leave the MLS club in 2026, with several clubs interested in his transfer.
There have long been rumors about a possible return to the Argentine's former club, Barcelona. Club president Joan Laporta makes no secret of his desire to bring Messi back to the Camp Nou. However, it seems that a financially lucrative move to Saudi Arabia also remains a potential option.
It is reported that Al-Ahli is interested in signing Messi and has been working for several weeks to convince the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner to move to the Middle East.
Meanwhile, Inter Miami still hopes to keep the player. Club co-owner Jorge Mas recently confirmed that he wants to keep the 2022 World Cup winner for at least another season. He said in an interview with ESPN that he would love for Messi to open the club's new stadium next March.
"The decision is up to Messi. We want him to finish his career here. I hope the news will come this summer, or better yet, as soon as possible," Mas emphasized.
If Messi decides to move to Saudi Arabia, he will meet again on the field with his longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who will play for Al-Nassr until 2027 under a new contract.
