Lionel Messi, the forward for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), is said to be in talks with Saudi Arabia about a prospective move.
Messi signed a two-year contract with PSG after leaving Barcelona in 2021 owing to the club’s financial condition.
With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, there has been much discussion about whether he will stay or go on a free transfer.
Following months of speculation, it has been revealed that PSG and Messi have agreed to part ways at the end of the season.
According to The Telegraph, Messi’s representatives are in talks with the Saudi authorities about a possible move to the Saudi Pro League.
Lionel Messi to Saudi Arabia
According to the report, Messi could make $400 million (£320 million) every year, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo’s current salary of £165 million at Al-Nassr.
Prospective deals for high-profile players generally entail state intervention before a final team is chosen, as is common practise in the Saudi Pro League.
It is expected that the 35-year-old will be assigned to Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr’s longstanding adversary.
Messi already has ties to the country through his position as a “ambassador” for the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), which has recently garnered headlines.
The Argentina international arrived to Saudi Arabia earlier this week to fulfil his obligations under his STA contract.
PSG penalised Messi two weeks’ pay and suspended him for the trip, which was not allowed by the club.
Messi has also been linked with a return to Barcelona, who want to bring their club star back to the Camp Nou, but their current financial problems may be a stumbling barrier.
Meanwhile, should the World Cup winner decide to join the MLS, Inter Miami will be first in line.
Messi has 31 goals and 34 assists in 71 outings for PSG, but it is unclear whether he will play for the club again.
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