Lionel Messi: Inter Miami confident of landing PSG attacker

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 23 May 2023 08:55 CDT
• 3 min read

Inter Miami are increasingly confident of completing a deal for PSG attacker Lionel Messi, according to a report from The Athletic.

The 35-year-old is in the second of a two-year deal at Parc des Princes, with his future beyond this season still uncertain.

PSG want him to sign a new contract while Barcelona are eager for him to return to Camp Nou, where he won six of his seven Ballon d’Or titles. But the third option for the Argentine is a move to MLS, where he could join up with David Beckham’s Inter Miami franchise.

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According to David Ornstein, the American club are growing increasingly bullish regarding their chances of signing the 35-year-old star, with the Athletic affirming that this offer is presently the “most advanced” of the legendary attacker’s three options.

It is further added that discussions for this move have been in progress for two years, although no talks are expected before the conclusion of the World Cup.

Messi’s motivation for moving to Miami is clear given the city’s close links to South America, the pivotal role it is likely to play in the build up to the 2026 World Cup and also the fact that his family already owns property in the region.

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Messi to sign new PSG deal?

The Athletic’s report comes in contrast to the belief in Catalunya that PSG are still clearly in front in the race to re-sign Messi.

Sport reports that PSG have a “huge advantage over possible competitors, be it with Miami in MLS, because Messi is convinced he can still fight for the biggest sporting titles, or Barcelona”.

It is added that Messi is reportedly happy in Paris, having completed his adaption to PSG. This has been illustrated by his outstanding performance this season, which has see him score 12 goals and create 13 more in just 17 appearances.