Lionel Messi (35) looks set to depart Paris Saint-Germain this summer following a trip to Saudi Arabia to fulfil his contractual obligations as a tourism ambassador to the country. L’Équipe are now reporting that the Argentine World Champion could be spending significantly more time in the Gulf state.
As reported by L’Équipe, Messi won’t remain at PSG beyond the summer. Whilst the player’s future at the Ligue 1 club was already uncertain, Messi’s unsanctioned trip to Saudi Arabia, which has led to a suspension, means that PSG won’t trigger the option to extend his contract by a further year.
Messi will therefore be on the market, and according to L’Équipe, a move to Saudi Arabia is currently the most likely option. The Gulf state are preparing “the biggest offer ever proposed to a football player.” This deal would last for “multiple years.” The offer to move to Saudi Arabia was being taken seriously by Messi’s entourage, even prior to yesterday’s conflict with his current club PSG.
Romain Molina has reported that Saudi side Al Hilal will make a move for Messi, with the chance to once again face off against Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for domestic rivals Al-Nassr.
There is also the option to join MLS side Inter Miami, owned by David Beckham, but this offer isn’t currently in pole position. Whilst Barcelona would like to make a deal happen, the La Liga side don’t necessarily have the financial means to do so this summer.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
