Messi Near MLS Extension as Inter Miami Negotiations Near End

Lionel Messi is close to signing a contract extension with Inter Miami, according to ESPN, as negotiations on a multi-year deal near completion.

Messi has been the league's biggest star since his signing in July 2023, helping Inter Miami lift MLS's profile in the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup. He was a centerpiece of the club's Leagues Cup triumph in 2023 and is a key factor in Miami's pursuit of league success, including a single-season points record in 2024. This season, Messi is Miami's leading scorer with 28 goals, and he is the second-leading goal scorer in MLS with 20 league goals, trailing only Nashville SC's Sam Surridge.

Reports had surfaced in recent months that Messi might be eyeing a move back to Europe for a higher level of competition after his MLS contract concludes. Rumors also swirled that the 38-year-old could return to Argentina ahead of what is likely his final World Cup next summer. Yet, the latest reporting indicates he is poised to continue his club career in MLS, with a multi-year extension anticipated to be finalized soon.

If finalized, the deal would likely see Messi remain with Inter Miami into the latter part of the decade, potentially retiring as a Heron. He would be older than 40 when the second contract period ends, a milestone that would shape the club's long-term planning. Inter Miami is currently sixth in the Eastern Conference standings, nine points above the playoff line, reflecting the club's ongoing push to build stability around its marquee star.

The prospective extension aligns with a broader strategy to cement MLS's status as a global destination for top players and to capitalize on the league's growth ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the United States will co-host.