Lionel Messi is nearing the end of his contract with Inter Miami and could be open to a new challenge in the burgeoning Saudi League away from the MLS side, MySportDab reports.
Since joining the Herons in 2023, Messi has been a revelational signing and pivot, leading the pack to herald new milestones for the David Beckham-owned side.
His 52 goals plus 25 assists have seen the team clinch the League Cup title, including the MLS Supporters Shield.
However, his heroics at the Miami-based outfit may likely be coming to an end soon.
According to L’Equipe, Saudi giants and reigning AFC Champions League winners Al-Ahli are in talks with Messi’s camp to sign him.
The Argentine has five months left on his Inter Miami contract with Al-Ahli hoping to break even to sign him as a free agent when the deal expires.
It is the second time a Saudi club are on the heels of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. Before leaving PSG for Inter Miami in 2023, Al-Hilal tabled an insane offer to sign him from the Ligue 1 giants.
Messi confirmed this new offer in his interview, adding that he chose to join Inter Miami for personal reasons.
Given Al-Hilal’s failed attempt to sign the playmaker, Al-Ahli’s latest interest drips with audacity and ambition.
However, a deal for the player is not totally ruled out given his relationship with the Saudi authorities.
He has a running ambassadorial contract with the country to promote them and equally has rave reviews for their burgeoning league, graced by the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and other top players from Europe.
Meanwhile, Inter Miami are hopeful of keeping him on a new deal but talks have yet to resume leaving the player’s future in armbits of uncertainty.
