Global football icon Lionel Messi is reportedly in discussions with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli about a potential move to the Saudi Pro League when his contract with Major League Soccer side, Inter Miami expires later this year. The transfer, if finalized, would be one of the most high-profile signings in the Saudi league’s recent efforts to attract elite global talent.

According to multiple sources close to the negotiations, verbal talks are underway between Messi’s representatives and Saudi officials, with the country’s powerful Public Investment Fund (PIF) said to be leading the engagement.

The PIF, which owns controlling interests in several top Saudi clubs including Al-Ahli, is reportedly keen to bring the World Cup-winning Argentine forward to the Middle East as part of its broader sports development strategy.

Although no formal contract has been tabled, the discussions are believed to be serious and progressing, especially with Messi’s current deal with Inter Miami set to run out in December 2025.

While Inter Miami are hopeful of extending his stay in the United States, the lure of the Saudi Pro League—both financially and strategically—may prove difficult to resist.

The potential transfer would mirror the high-profile acquisitions Saudi Arabia has made in recent years, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Neymar, and N’Golo Kanté, all of whom now play in the Kingdom.

The league has made clear its ambition to become a major force in world football, bolstered by substantial government-backed investments and high-paying contracts for top-tier players.

For Messi, who joined Inter Miami in mid-2023 and brought unprecedented global attention to the MLS, the move could mark a new chapter in an already illustrious career.

In his time with Miami, he has won the Leagues Cup, netted numerous goals, and significantly raised the club’s profile both on and off the pitch. His arrival transformed Inter Miami into a global brand and reignited interest in U.S. soccer.

The Saudi deal, should it go through, is expected to include not just playing terms but long-term commercial and ambassadorial roles, similar to arrangements offered to other global stars in the Kingdom. Sources say Messi is being considered as a potential face of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, which includes expanding the nation’s influence in sports and entertainment.

As it stands, Messi has not made a final decision, and any potential move would have to wait until the expiration of his MLS contract. However, if an agreement is reached, Messi could sign a pre-contract with Al-Ahli as early as later this year.

The prospect of Messi heading to the Saudi Pro League has sparked debate among football fans and analysts. While some see it as the natural next step for a player entering the twilight of his career, others view it as a potential loss for MLS, which has benefited immensely from Messi’s presence.

For now, all eyes remain on the negotiations, with fans on both sides of the Atlantic watching closely to see where the legendary No. 10 will play next.