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Lionel Messi in talks over Saudi Arabia move?

sportsmole.co.uk, 3 May 2023, 22:53
Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi has reportedly held talks over a possible deal to join a Saudi Arabian club.

After leaving Barcelona in 2021 due to the club's financial situation, Messi put pen to paper on a two-year deal with PSG.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, there has been widespread speculation whether he would extend his stay or depart on a free transfer.

Following months of uncertainty, it has been revealed that PSG and Messi have decided to go their separate ways at the end of the season.

According to The Telegraph, talks are underway between Messi's representatives and the Saudi Arabian government over a potential move to the Saudi Pro League.

The report claims that Messi could earn $400m (£320m) a year, which would surpass the £165m yearly wage that Al-Nassr Cristiano Ronaldo is currently being paid.

As is common practice in the Saudi Pro League, prospective deals for high-profile players usually have state involvement before a final club is decided.

There is a belief that the 35-year-old would be placed at Al-Hilal, who are Al-Nassr's traditional rivals, and such a move would recreate Messi and Ronaldo's rivalry from their La Liga days.

Messi already has links with the country in his role as an "ambassador" for the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), which has made the headlines in recent days.

The Argentina international travelled to Saudi Arabia earlier this week to carry out his commitments as part of his STA contract.

The trip was unauthorised by PSG, and as a result, the club fined Messi two weeks' wages and suspended him for the same period.

Messi has also been linked with a return to Barcelona, who want to bring their club legend back to the Camp Nou, but their ongoing financial issues could prove to be a stumbling block.

Inter Miami, meanwhile, are at the front of the queue should the World Cup winner decide to complete a move to the MLS.

Messi has scored 31 goals and provided 34 assists in 71 appearances for PSG, but it remains to be seen whether he will play for the club again.

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