Inter Miami are reportedly “extremely confident” that Lionel Messi will sign a new contract until at least 2026.
The Argentina legend has spent the past two years with the MLS outfit, but his current deal is due to expire at the end of 2025 and he has been heavily linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League in recent days.
However, transfer news expert David Ornstein has insisted that Inter Miami are “extremely confident” that Messi will agree fresh terms and extend his stay in Florida.
Inter Miami, who are co-owned by Manchester United legend David Beckham, are hopeful of announcing Messi’s contract extension soon, with an agreement reportedly close.
As a result, a move to Saudi Arabia remains unlikely, despite the fact that Messi is considered to be a dream target for the dealmakers in the Middle East.
Lionel Messi will not rejoin Barcelona
News of Messi’s likely new contract at Inter Miami will also end speculation of a sensational return to Barcelona.
The Blaugrana legend has been linked with a move back to Camp Nou ever since his departure to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, and rumours have ramped up during his time at Inter Miami.
However, Ornstein has confirmed that Messi is set to remain with the MLS outfit, meaning a Barcelona return is extremely unlikely as things stand.
Despite this, links with a Camp Nou transfer may well persist until his new Inter Miami contract is official, with Hansi Flick’s side in the market for a new winger after missing out on Athletic Club superstar Nico Williams.
Messi scored 672 goals in 778 first-team appearances for Barcelona before he departed on a free transfer for PSG upon the expiration of his contract in 2021.
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