Al-Ahli Reportedly in Talks to Sign Lionel Messi After Inter Miami Contract Ends

Saudi Club Al-Ahli Targets Messi for 2026 Season

Saudi Arabian giants Al-Ahli have reportedly initiated discussions with Lionel Messi’s representatives, aiming to sign the Argentine star once his contract with Inter Miami expires in December 2025. According to French outlet L’Équipe, Al-Ahli is preparing a substantial financial offer to lure Messi to the Saudi Pro League.

Messi, now 38, joined Major League Soccer in mid-2023, rejecting a previous Saudi offer in favor of a move to Inter Miami. Despite that, Saudi interest in the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has remained strong.

Al-Ahli’s Strategic Move to Bolster League Profile

Al-Ahli, fresh off winning the Asian Champions League, is looking to further elevate the status of Saudi football ahead of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which the Kingdom is set to host. Signing Messi would be a major step in that direction, following in the footsteps of other global stars who have recently moved to the Middle East.

Though financial details of the offer are undisclosed, reports suggest the proposed deal could be one of the most lucrative in football history.

Inter Miami Keen to Retain Their Star

Meanwhile, Inter Miami is not backing down. The club is reportedly preparing to open negotiations for a contract extension with Messi. His presence has transformed the franchise, both in terms of on-field performance and off-field commercial success.

Fabrizio Romano, a trusted voice in football transfer news, confirmed that Inter Miami’s front office plans to start renewal talks in the coming weeks

Messi’s Future at a Crossroads

The renewed interest comes shortly after Inter Miami’s early exit from the FIFA Club World Cup, where they were eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain, Messi’s former club. Still, the World Cup winner remains one of the most marketable players globally, with continued performances attracting global attention.

As his contract expiry in December approaches, fans, clubs, and analysts alike are eagerly watching to see where Messi chooses to end his legendary career.