According to the BBC, Lionel Messi is set to reject a lucrative contract offer from Saudi Arabia and join Major League Soccer (MLS) team Inter Miami as a free agent following his departure from Paris St Germain (PSG).
While there were rumors of a potential return to Barcelona, LaLiga’s financial fair play regulations have limited the Spanish club’s ability to make a competitive offer. Instead, Messi is reportedly considering a move to Miami, where he would play outside of Europe for the first time since joining Barcelona’s academy at the age of 13.
During his time at PSG, Messi won the Ligue 1 title in both of his seasons with the club and secured the French Super Cup in 2022. He recently led Argentina to victory in the World Cup held in Qatar in December, adding to his illustrious career that includes a record seven Ballon d’Or awards.
While there were rumors linking Messi to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, it seems he is leaning towards joining Inter Miami. The Gulf nation has been eager to attract high-profile players to its league, previously convincing Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo to join Al Nassr and securing the services of French striker Karim Benzema at Al Ittihad.
Inter Miami, co-owned by former England captain David Beckham, would provide Messi with a new challenge in the MLS. Beckham himself made a notable move to the United States to play in the MLS, winning the MLS Cup twice with Los Angeles Galaxy.
