💥Revealed: Sources indicate what's most likely to happen with Lionel Messi amid rumours of loan away from Inter Miami
Could we see Messi return to Europe or join Ronaldo in Saudi?
Ben Jacobs has offered his insight into what’s really going on with Lionel Messi and those rumours of a possible loan move away from Inter Miami.
Messi is facing a few months without competitive club football after Inter Miami’s recent playoff defeat, meaning there’s been talk of possible loan moves to clubs in Europe or Saudi Arabia.
However, Fabrizio Romano moved to rule that out in his Daily Briefing column earlier today, and it seems one of our other columnists has similar information.
Posting on X, Jacobs suggested that an ambassadorial role as he trains in Saudi Arabia at some point in the coming months hasn’t been ruled out, but it seems an actual transfer to a Saudi Pro League club looks unlikely after he rejected them in the summer.
“Saudi dealmakers downplaying any chance of a short-term loan for Lionel Messi,” Jacobs wrote. “There really isn't a window of opportunity allowing a Saudi club to sign Messi given Inter Miami would want him back for pre-season in late January or early February.
“No approach has been made to Messi. And some dealmakers still remain upset over the manner in which Messi picked Inter Miami. Al-Hilal had a private jet on standby pretty much right up until Messi announced his decision showing Saudi always felt Messi was on the brink of joining.
“What's not being totally ruled out is Messi coming over on a short trip to train during the off-season and fulfil ambassadorial duties. But there isn't a six-month window, or even a three-month one, where a Saudi club could legally sign Messi and not overlap with MLS commitments.
“Those close to Messi also point out he also has international commitments and would not want to overload his calendar risking fatigue in 2024.
“Inter Miami would also not entertain any scenario where Messi missed part of the 2024 season. LA Galaxy were more flexible when David Beckham was loaned to Milan in 2009. They eventually agreed to extending the deal until July.
“Inter Miami want Messi back for pre-season. This period is also seen as an important period commercially for the club. Lots of Messi-related activations are planned.”
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