Manchester United
Premier League • England
Lionel Messi next club confirmed as Man Utd icon helps secure stunning coup
Paris Saint-Germain superstar Lionel Messi is reportedly set to join MLS side Inter Miami on a free transfer this summer.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has been linked with a return to Barcelona, as well as with a big-money switch to Saudi Arabia. But, it seems he has declined both of those options.
Manchester City have also been linked with an unlikely move for Messi in the past. Indeed, Pep Guardiola seems to have always been linked with signing the Argentina icon since he left Barcelona.
However, Messi now looks set to join Inter Miami, whose chairman, ironically, is Manchester United legend David Beckham.
This is according to reputed Spanish journalist Guillem Balague. On Twitter, he said: “Messi has decided. His destination: Inter Miami.”
Messi’s contract with PSG is set to expire this month. So, he will sign for the American club on a free transfer. Although his wages are expected to be huge, they are not expected to be as high as what he would have received in Saudi.
From the MLS’ point of view – the move will no doubt be huge from a footballing and commercial point of view.
READ MORE: Man Utd transfers: Star’s switch to UCL side ignites, with transfer fee larger than expected
Messi MLS switch confirmed
Messi will undoubtedly be the biggest player to move to the MLS since the league’s creation. Gareth Bale is the current holder of that title, after spending a year with Los Angeles FC.
Now, Messi could potentially finish his career in the MLS, just as Bale did.
The 35-year-old has enjoyed an excellent final season with PSG. Overall, he made 32 Ligue 1 appearances, scoring 16 goals and making 16 assists. This gives him an impressive average of 1 goal contribution per match.
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) June 7, 2023
However, despite his good form, there have been a lot of problems behind the scenes.
Indeed, Neymar is also expected to depart the Parc des Princes this summer, amid an alleged between him and Kylian Mbappe.
Unlike Messi, Neymar could end up heading to the Premier League. For example, Manchester United and Chelsea have both registered an interest in signing the Brazil international.
But, as for Messi, his impending switch to Inter Miami ends an incredible football career in Europe.
During his time with Barcelona, he won 10 LaLiga titles, seven Copa del Reys, eight Spanish Super Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, three Club World Cups and four Champions Leagues.
With PSG, he has won two Ligue 1 titles and one French Cup. Of course, he also managed to clinch an elusive World Cup title with Argentina last year.
Now, it will be interesting to see how he fares with his new and possibly his last club – Inter Miami.