David Beckham's dreams of bringing a superstar to Inter Miami may be edging closer as legendary forward Lionel Messi could be set to make a decision on his future.
The Argentinian icon is set to depart Paris Saint-Germain following two years in the French capital, with a number of clubs from across the globe keen on acquiring his services. It had appeared that the 35-year-old was set for a move to Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Hilal, where he would resume his old rivalry with former foe Cristiano Ronaldo, earning an eye-watering sum in the process.
Naturally, having spent the vast majority of his career at Barcelona, an emotional u-turn to the Camp Nou had also been heavily mooted as a potential option for the World Cup winner. However, it now seems that a move to the MLS could well be in the offing instead.
Now, according to Spanish journalist Sebastián Quadrelli, Messi may be about to spurn the advances of his former employers. He took to Twitter to say: "Leo is far from Barcelona. There are no guarantees. They do not want to go through the same thing as when they left. What Jorge Messi declared when leaving Laporta's house was misinterpreted. Leo's times are not those of Barça."
His assertions have now been corroborated by fellow reporter Veronica Brunati, who is believed to be close friends with Messi's family. She quoted the tweet in question, adding: "Everything that [Sebastián Quadrelli] publishes is real: in the last few hours, Inter Miami has advanced in the proposal to Lionel Messi and is closer to closing his contract. In Miami they are very optimistic."
This revelation comes after what has been a tumultuous week for the Vice City franchise, which is co-owned by David Beckham. Inter Miami currently sit rock bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference, having dismissed coach Phil Neville earlier this month after a poor run of form.
The signing of one of the world's most iconic and famous players would surely be the biggest moment in the fledgling franchise's short history. The club was set up back in 2020 to much fanfare but has had mixed fortunes since its establishment.
However, bringing Messi to the MLS would undoubtedly rank as the biggest coup in the league's history, trumping the deal that saw Beckham join LA Galaxy back in 2007.
