Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi is reportedly in talks with the Saudi Arabian government over a possible move.
Messi agreed to a two-year contract with PSG after leaving Barcelona in 2021 due to the club’s financial difficulties.
His contract is set to expire at the end of the season, so there has been much speculation about whether he would stay or leave on a free transfer.
Following months of speculation, 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 government about joining the Saudi Pro League.
According to the report, Messi could make $400m (£320m) every year, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo’s current salary of £165m at Al-Nassr.
Prospective deals for high-profile players typically entail state intervention before a final team is selected, as is common procedure in the Saudi Pro League.
The 35-year-old is expected to be assigned to Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr’s traditional opponent, and such a move would revive Messi and Ronaldo’s rivalry from their La Liga days.
See Also: Lionel Messi Set To Leave PSG At The End Of The Season, Intention Revealed To Club Last Month
The Argentina international already has links to the country through his role as a “ambassador” for the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), which has recently garnered headlines.
Messi has also been linked with a return to Barcelona, who want to bring their club star back to the Camp Nou, but their ongoing financial difficulties could be a stumbling barrier.
Meanwhile, if the World Cup winner decides 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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