Lionel Messi only signed a new contract with MLS side Inter Miami last October, but it seems he is already making plans for his next club.
Lionel Messi’s contract runs until 2028 (Image: Getty Images)
Lionel Messi has been linked with a return to his boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys after admitting his dream of playing there. Messi, 38, came through the Argentine club’s youth organization and spent seven years there before moving to Barcelona at the age of 13.
The Argentine scored 234 goals for Newell’s youth team and even has a stand named after him in the club’s stadium. And it looks like he could finally be on the pitch for a club in the near future.
Newell’s vice president Juan Manul Medina confirmed in an interview with Argentine media outlet TN that negotiations are underway for the club to sign Messi in the near future.
“We are working to have Leo play at Newell’s in the first half of 2027. This is a project that goes beyond Newell’s. It is a project for the city of Rosario, the province and for Argentine football. It all depends on what we can offer in terms of infrastructure and competitive sports program,” he said.
read more: Former team-mate confirms Cristiano Ronaldo’s willingness to return to Manchester Unitedread more: David Beckham hints at pairing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi following Saudi transfer scandal
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As it stands, Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami until the 2028 season and only signed a new contract with the MLS side last October. However, with the 2027 season expected to be split to align the league with European schedules, Messi could consider a loan move to maintain fitness.
But he was not shy in admitting his love for his boyhood club. In 2017 he said: “I’ve said many times that my dream is to play for Newell’s, but you never know what will happen. Part of that doubt is due to the current situation in this country.”
“I have a family, and my children come first, and I come first. I want my children to grow up in a peaceful place, feeling safe and enjoying life.”
Messi celebrated in 2020 wearing a Newell’s shirt as a tribute to Diego Maradona (Image: Getty Images)
Could Messi ever return to Europe? Share your thoughts in the comments section below
Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has played 88 games and scored 77 goals. He also helped the club win the MLS Cup, MLS Supporters’ Shield and Leagues Cup.
After the forward put pen to paper about his new contract, David Beckham said: “Our vision is to bring the best players to Inter Miami and to this city, and that is exactly what we have done.
“We brought to our city the best player to ever play this game. It shows our dedication to Miami, but it also shows Leo’s dedication to the city, the club and the game. He’s as dedicated as ever and he still wants to win.”
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