Lead Role on the Move
Lionel Messi, the footballing legend currently starring for Inter Miami, finds himself at the centre of fresh transfer drama. With his contract expiring in December 2025, recent reports suggest he is in advanced talks with Saudi Pro League clubs, most notably Al Ahli, opening the door to a spectacular reunion or rivalry reborn with Cristiano Ronaldo, who is already playing in Saudi with Al Nassr.
Contract Countdown Ticking
Messi’s current deal with Inter Miami concludes at the end of 2025. Although both he and the club have confirmed ongoing discussions about an extension, talks have not yet resulted in a finalized agreement. If no extension is reached by July 1, Messi will be free to negotiate with any club, including those outside MLS.
Saudi’s Grand Ambition
Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s blockbuster signing, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has aggressively pursued Messi. Al Hilal, backed by PIF, is reportedly offering a contract even more lucrative than what Ronaldo receives, potentially exceeding the record-breaking figures Ronaldo currently holds. Al Ahli is making its own bold bid, leveraging star power, Messi could line up alongside former Premier League stars Firmino, Mahrez, and Toney.
Family and Stability in the U.S.
Despite the lucrative offer from Saudi clubs, Messi’s roots in Miami run deep. Journalist Guillem Balague notes that Messi’s family, his wife, involved in U.S.-based brand partnerships, and their children in youth academy programs, appear well-settled in Florida. Messi himself has emphasized his desire for a stable project leading up to the 2026 World Cup on North American soil.
The Ronaldo Factor
The burning question among fans: could Messi and Ronaldo share the same stage again? Cristiano extended his Al Nassr contract until 2027, firmly establishing his Saudi presence. If Messi also joins Saudi, their rivalry could reignite in the same league, whether as opponents or possibly, never say never, teammates. Such a matchup would be more than a transfer, it would be a global spectacle.
MLS vs. Saudi: The Stakes Revealed
This potential signing is more than a player move, it’s a turning point for international football. Saudi Pro League has made headlines with superstar acquisitions like Ronaldo, Neymar, and Benzema. Messi’s possible arrival would elevate the league’s prestige and global reach. Meanwhile, Inter Miami and MLS risk losing their marquee asset, but could also use Messi’s Saudi-linked buzz to drive a bigger contract and raise the league’s profile.
Messi’s Priorities Revealed
Through negotiations, Messi has made one thing clear: his priority is continuity and stability, especially leading up to the 2026 World Cup on U.S. soil. That means MLS and Miami’s offer must meet his personal and professional needs, beyond just financial reward.
No Decision Yet
Despite rumours and high-stakes offers, no formal agreement has been finalized on either side. Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and PIF have all approached Messi’s representatives, including his father Jorge. On the MLS side, Inter Miami continues contract extension talks, but no deal is sealed.
Implications for Football’s Future
Should Messi join the Saudi league, it would mark an era-defining moment, Messi and Ronaldo renewing their storied rivalry, this time under the Arabian sun. If he stays in Miami, it signals MLS’s maturation and long-term vision. Regardless of where Messi lands, the reverberations will redefine the football power map ahead of one of the biggest events, the 2026 World Cup.
The Final Whistle Awaits
Messi’s future is at a crucial crossroads. With his contract ticking toward expiry, the choice lies between a legacy-defining Saudi mega-deal or anchoring another historic chapter in North America. Fans across the world are on edge, awaiting the moment when football’s greatest player answers the question: with Ronaldo in Saudi, will Messi join him, or blaze a final path in the U.S.?
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