Inter Miami CF has risen as the front-runner to sign Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi. While no agreement has been finalized, the potential deal would reportedly involve part-ownership of the Major League Soccer (MLS) club for Messi and a partnership with Apple TV, the league’s broadcast rights holder. Unlike David Beckham’s deal, no MLS subsidy would be included in this arrangement.
Messi, who currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), is set to become a free agent when his contract expires on June 30. Last week, PSG announced that the Argentine forward would not remain with the club beyond this date. Messi’s upcoming departure has ignited a storm of rumors and speculation about his next move. On Wednesday, media reports suggested a deal with Inter Miami had been reached, but an MLS club spokesperson declined to comment on these claims.
Previously, Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal had made an offer to Messi, with sources claiming they had a “50-50” chance of signing the player. However, contact between the club and Messi’s representatives has reportedly waned. Insiders now suggest that the football superstar is torn between a return to his former club, FC Barcelona, and a move to David Beckham’s Miami franchise.
Barcelona’s efforts to re-sign Messi have been hindered by financial complications, as the club must prove the feasibility of any agreement to LaLiga. Nevertheless, if Messi were to join Inter Miami, it could represent the most significant signing in MLS history.
Inter Miami is also said to be in talks with former Argentina and Barcelona manager Tata Martino about taking on the team’s managerial role, potentially reuniting him with Messi. Moreover, the proposed offer to Messi reportedly includes intricate sponsorship deals involving brands like Apple and Adidas.
In related news, Apple TV+ announced on Tuesday that it has secured the rights to a four-part documentary about Messi’s career. Apple TV+ is currently in the first year of a TV rights deal with MLS.
