Lionel Messi's Inter Miami contract is winding down and he's yet to sign on with Saudi outfit Al Ahli looking to pounce by luring him to the Middle Easy with a mammoth offer
Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli are "ready to do whatever it takes" to convince Lionel Messi to make the move to the Middle East. The Argentine's contract at Inter Miami is up this year and clubs are ready to pounce.
Messi has continued to be a hugely influential figure after leaving Europe and choosing to play his football in the MLS. Despite closing in on 40, the serial Ballon d'Or winner is still regularly contributing and Al Ahli now want to pounce.
L'Equipe reports that the club has made contact with Messi's camp ahead of the forward's contract expiring in December, although the player is in talks about extending his stay in America. This is not the first time that those in Saudi have made moves to land Messi.
The Barcelona icon is under contract as an ambassador for the Saudi Tourism Board, but ultimately he decides where he plays his football. Messi could earn mouthwatering sums if he did move to the Middle East, but he's shown no desire to leave Miami.
Al Ahli currently have the likes of Roberto Firmino on their books with a number of players choosing to play out their twilight years in Saudi Arabia, where they can massively increase their earnings.
Messi though can land a stake in Inter Miami if he stays and renews his deal whilst the upcoming World Cup in 2026 could also be a factor. The Argentine is looking to help his country retain their crown with the tournament taking place across America, Mexico and Canada.
Remaining in North America could therefore aid his preparation as Messi weighs up his next move. Sources close to the player speak of his happiness as he enjoys his time away from the major European limelight, which followed him for almost two decades.
A stunning return to the Spanish giants was mooted as the Argentine looks to remain primed for the World Cup. The South American nation have been hugely dominant in recent years, winning successive Copa Americas either side of the triumph in Qatar in 2022.
Cristiano Ronaldo, despite hinting at leaving, has recently signed a new mammoth extension with Al Nassr that will see him remain in Saudi Arabia. Now since their days at Barcelona and Real Madrid have Messi and Ronaldo operated in the same league.