Putting an end to all transfer rumors, Lionel Messi is staying at Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar is set to sign a multi-year contract extension with the U.S. club.
Messi’s current deal with Inter Miami expires this year, which had fueled speculation that he might move elsewhere. But now, dismissing all the speculation, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is preparing to extend his stay in Miami, according to a report from ESPN.
ESPN claims that it is now only a matter of time before the new deal is finalized. Messi joined Miami in July 2023 from French club PSG on a two-and-a-half-year contract, which is due to end this year. Talks over a new deal had been ongoing for quite some time, but the lack of an official announcement created uncertainty. Meanwhile, reports surfaced of interest from clubs in Europe and the Middle East. However, ESPN reports that almost all aspects of the negotiations between Messi and Miami have been agreed upon. Only a few formalities remain, after which the deal will be sent to Major League Soccer authorities for approval.
If Messi plays in next year’s World Cup, it will be his last international tournament with Argentina. Still, his new deal with Miami is expected to be for multiple years. Since joining the club, Messi has transformed Inter Miami. In his very first season, he led them to the Leagues Cup — the first major trophy in the club’s history.
