Transfer Centre

Inter Miami make unique Lionel Messi offer?

By Ben Sully | 05 April 2023

Inter Miami reportedly present a unique offer to Lionel Messi in a bid to convince the Paris Saint-Germain forward to join the MLS franchise.

Inter Miami are reportedly prepared to offer Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi an equity stake in the franchise to convince him to join the club.

With Messi's PSG contract set to expire at the end of the season, his future is currently the centre of widespread speculation.

A recent report suggested that the Argentine was leaning towards a summer exit, but his representatives have since played down those rumours.

Barcelona have been linked with a move for their former player, while Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal have supposedly offered Messi a lucrative contract.

Inter Miami, who are owned by David Beckham, have also been mooted as a potential destination, and they appear to be stepping up their bid to lure Messi stateside.

Argentina's Lionel Messi celebrates scoring their second goal on March 23, 2023 © Reuters

According to the Independent, they are willing to offer Messi an equity stake in the franchise to persuade him to make the move to the MLS.

However, the report goes on to state that the Argentina international is keen to remain in Europe until the 2024 Copa America.

Messi is also reluctant to agree a new deal with PSG until he receives reassurances about their ability to compete for the Champions League trophy.

There is uncertainty surrounding the manager's position, with current boss Christophe Galtier under scrutiny for recent results and the club's Champions League last-16 exit.

The Parisians may also need to offload players during the summer transfer window in a bid to meet Financial Fair Play rules.

Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) Lionel Messi celebrates scoring their first goal with Kylian Mbappe and Sergio Ramos on March 4, 2023 © Reuters

Barcelona could offer Messi another route to stay in Europe, but the Catalan giants have reportedly made no formal contact with the forward.

Messi's father and agent Jorge Messi and Barcelona president Joan Laporta met in February to discuss a tribute match for the 35-year-old rather than a return.

Barcelona boss Xavi is believed to have regular contact with Messi, however, the club's financial position could stifle any hopes of re-signing the World Cup winner.

Messi has featured in 33 games across all competitions this season, scoring 18 goals and providing 17 assists for PSG.