On July 7, 2025, Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli reportedly initiated talks with Lionel Messi’s representatives to lure the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner after his Inter Miami contract expires in December.
Al-Ahli, fresh off their Asian Champions League victory, is intensifying efforts to sign Messi, 38, with a lucrative offer, per L’Équipe. The Saudi club, backed by the nation’s $700 billion Public Investment Fund, aims to boost the Saudi Pro League’s global profile ahead of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, per Reuters. Neither Messi’s camp nor Al-Ahli has commented, but the talks follow Messi’s rejection of a Saudi offer in 2023.
Inter Miami, where Messi led the team to win the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield, is keen to extend his contract. The club, which draws 20,000 fans per game, views Messi as vital to its $1.5 billion valuation, according to Forbes. However, their early exit from the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup against PSG may weaken their case.
🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Al-Ahli have entered talks with Leo Messi over a deal to sign him in December, when his Inter Miami contract runs out.
(Source: @Tanziloic) pic.twitter.com/posSec8N73
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 7, 2025Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami in 2023, after his time at PSG, resulted in 32 goals in 44 MLS games, according to The Athletic. This achievement has solidified his appeal despite his reported annual salary of $150 million. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is attempting to compete with Europe’s $10 billion football market by attracting stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, who earns $200 million annually. Ongoing discussions, set against the backdrop of global events such as U.S. tariffs, underscore Saudi Arabia’s strategy for sports investment. Notably, 60% of fans prefer players to remain in Europe.
🚨 BREAKING!
Al-Ahli are in talks to sign Lionel Messi. 🇦🇷
ℹ️ @Tanziloic pic.twitter.com/OKHTOl9ePJ
— Polymarket FC (@PolymarketFC) July 7, 2025Messi’s potential 2025 move to Al-Ahli, which could impact 100 million football fans, could redefine the Saudi Pro League’s stature, with 1.2 billion viewers expected for the 2026 World Cup, according to FIFA. Messi’s decision will shape the twilight of his career and the global narrative of football.
