The interest by Major League Soccer execs to hire Lionel Messi is far from being a secret, but the possibility of watching "La Pulga" joining the league has never been closer, and with the perks offered to the Argentine, the deal could be a record-breaking moment in the history of team sports in the United States.
A report by L'Equipe suggests that, even if the French side and the player had already agreed terms to extend his deal, the lack of an official document to support that notion has seen the North American league pushing for a transfer. Now, with David Beckham's help, MLS execs have grown confident on the possibility of hiring the football superstar, and not only would they make him the best-paid player in the world, there would be a massive bonus for the South American ace.
The report by the French publication states that Messi, who already owns an apartment in Miami, would join Inter Miami for the next three years if things progress between himself and the league. Furthermore, the plan plotted by the competition's officers would be similar to when David Beckham joined the league in 2007, meaning that Messi would also be given the chance to launch his MLS team, just like the English footballer did with the Miami-based side.
Player agent Jerome Meary, as per L'Equipe, admitted that contacts between the league and Messi's agent/father Jorge intensified during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which could be the reason why "La Pulga" has not committed his future to playing with Les Parisiens beyond this season.
A move such as this would not only put the MLS on everyone's radar, it would also create a positive atmosphere prior to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in Canada, Mexico, and mostly in the United States, with over half of the games being held on American soil.
Messi is yet to decide whether if he continues playing in Europe or if he joins the league this summer, which is also one of the causes that have slowed this deal down. The French publication adds that PSG will try their best to keep Messi around, but the team's recent exit from the UEFA Champions League and Messi's wage demands could be a serious roadblock for that move. Additionally, the never-ending interest from Barcelona to welcome their favorite player is there, but as things stand, it seems that the North American league could have the upper hand when it comes to this potential move.
