Football superstar Lionel Messi has reportedly agreed to sign a contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, according to the Daily Express. This move comes as a surprise to many, as Messi’s future with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has been one of the main talking points in the football world, especially after the World Cup and with his contract set to expire at the end of this season.
The UK-based publication reported that Messi will sign a contract worth £262 million a year, making it one of the most expensive contracts in football history. The deal will also see two of his former Barcelona teammates, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, join him in Riyadh.
“Messi’s move would see him face old foe Ronaldo again as the duo re-establish their rivalry in the Middle East. Busquets joining alongside the Argentine would also be a blow to the 38-year-old after Al-Nassr had hoped to sign him themselves,” the Daily Express reported.
Messi’s suspension from PSG earlier this month after he went on an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia raised questions about his future with the club. The seven-time Ballon d´Or winner traveled to Saudi Arabia without PSG’s permission to fulfill commitments as part of a contract with the country´s tourist office, resulting in his suspension.
The affair has made it increasingly unlikely that Messi will remain at PSG beyond this season when his two-year contract with the club expires. While he has been linked with a host of teams including Inter Miami and a return to Barcelona, it appears that he has now settled on another club instead.
It remains to be seen how Messi’s move to Al-Hilal will impact the football world and his future in the sport. With his undeniable talent and impressive track record, many are sure to be eagerly watching how this story develops in the coming weeks and months.
