The Argentine icon's contract with the MLS side is set to expire, opening the door for a blockbuster transfer.
Messi's illustrious career boasts 759 goals in 941 club matches and 112 goals in 191 appearances for Argentina, alongside eight Ballon d'Or awards. During his time at Barcelona, he secured ten La Liga titles, seven Copa del Reys, seven Spanish Super Cups, four Champions Leagues, three UEFA Super Cups, and three FIFA Club World Cups.
His potential move to Saudi Arabia could see him reignite his storied rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently extended his contract with Al-Nassr until 2027.
Journalist Esteban Edul revealed on ESPN Argentina that Messi is contemplating a change of scenery ahead of the 2026 World Cup. "Leo and his family told me he's considering playing somewhere else for the six months leading up to the World Cup," Edul said. "His contract renewal with Inter Miami was paused as he explores options."
French outlet L'Equipe, citing journalist Loic Tanzi, reported that Al-Ahli, backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), have been in talks with Messi's representatives for weeks. "Saudi Arabia tried to sign Messi in 2023 after his Paris Saint-Germain stint, and they haven't given up," Tanzi wrote. "Al-Ahli, fresh off their Asian Champions League triumph, are pushing hard to land the Argentine star."
Financial details remain undisclosed, but the offer is expected to be substantial as Saudi Arabia aims to elevate its league's global profile ahead of hosting the 2034 World Cup.
Inter Miami, however, are determined to retain their talisman. Since joining in 2023, Messi has transformed the club, scoring 52 goals and providing 25 assists in 64 matches, including 18 goals and seven assists in 25 games during the 2025 season.
Despite a 4-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup round of 16, Messi's impact remains undeniable, with a recent brace in a 4-1 MLS win over Montreal.
Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano defended his decision to play Messi for the full 90 minutes against Montreal. "Leo thrives on the pitch, and we want to maximize his impact," Mascherano said. "He gives us an edge, and we're focused on keeping him."
With a hectic schedule ahead, including matches against New England Revolution, Nashville, FC Cincinnati, and New York Red Bulls, Mascherano emphasized the need for squad readiness. "We've got a tough run of games, and everyone has to step up," he added.
As Al-Ahli's pursuit intensifies, the football world waits to see whether Messi will stay in Miami, return to Europe, or join the Saudi Pro League's growing constellation of stars. His decision could reshape the global football landscape and set the stage for one final chapter in his legendary career.
Arsenal have firmly dismissed speculation linking their star winger Gabriel Martinelli with a move to Al Nassr, despite reports of a potential 85 million euros bid from the Saudi club.
On Face to Face, hosted by Romario, Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, discussed stars like Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo at the club's training facilities, avoiding transfer market specifics.
Barcelona have reportedly set their sights on Liverpool's dynamic winger Luis Diaz as their top transfer target for the summer of 2025, following a dramatic collapse in their pursuit of Athletic Club's Nico Williams.
Arsenal face a pivotal moment in the summer transfer window as Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr have reportedly set their sights on winger Gabriel Martinelli.
