Al Hilal, a Saudi Arabian Pro League club, wants to sign Lionel Messi in the summer in a deal worth more than €400 million annually.
The club is reported to have submitted a proposal to Messi and his representatives in an attempt to entice him to move to Saudi Arabia.
However, Messi is expected to turn down the lucrative offer from the Middle East. According to various reports, the Argentine wants to stay in Europe and play more competitive football.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are also currently keen to keep him in the summer. However, several reports suggest that the forward is set to leave the French club at the end of the season.
If Messi accepts the move to the Middle East, he will reunite with his long-time rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
According to Marca, Al Hilal are determined to sign the 2022 World Champion.
Currently serving a transfer ban, Al Hilal will be free to sign Messi in the summer. The Saudi government is also said to be willing to change salary cap laws to facilitate the superstar’s arrival.
Barcelona is also interested in re-signing Messi.
In the midst of all this, the 35-year-old stated that he wished to remain in Europe. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner could also make a return to Barcelona.
Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste on Saturday confirmed that the club contacted Messi about re-signing him.
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“We have been in contact with Leo Messi’s camp. Leo knows how much we appreciate him and I would love for him to come back here. I was involved in contract talks two years ago and still remember how hard it was to let Messi leave. We hope to find the right conditions to continue his history here,” Yuste was quoted.
With the Messi stating that he wants to remain in Europe, a return to Barcelona looks likely.
