Lionel Messi can get huge Cristiano Ronaldo transfer reunion as talks underway

Lionel Messiis reportedly in discussions with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli regarding a remarkable transfer to the Middle East later this year. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain legend's current Inter Miami deal runs out in December.

As things stand, there has been no indication of an extension. This has raised the prospect of Messi departing the MLS outfit in 2026, with several clubs expressing interest in securing his services.

His former club Barcelona have been persistently linked with a reunion, with president Joan Laporta making his ambition to bring the Argentine back to the Nou Camp abundantly clear. However, it seems that a financially attractive switch to Saudi Arabia could also present itself as a viable option for Messi.

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According to French publication L'Equipe, Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli are keen on acquiring his signature and have allegedly been working for 'weeks' to persuade the eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient to relocate to the Middle East.

Inter Miami remain optimistic about retaining him, with co-owner Jorge Mas recently expressing his ambition to keep the 2022 World Cup champion until at least the following campaign.

Speaking to ESPN, Mas said: "I previously said that my wish, my dream would be for the number 10 to inaugurate our new stadium in March.

"This is a decision that rests on Messi. We wish for Messi to finish his career here. I said a few months ago that we should have news in the summer about that but hopefully it will be as soon as possible.

"But I am optimistic because we have done everything possible for Leo to feel at home, to feel comfortable. I always said that he is a competitive animal, he wants to win. I hope we can raise many trophies together here at Inter Miami in the coming years. Here, we're just waiting to be able to give the fans the good news about Lionel Messi."

He further stated: "We are a little selfish, we would like to see more trophies and obviously with Messi here. I won't speak for Messi, but I speak for me and the club. Lionel from day one has said he wants to compete and win.

"He is a competitive animal. Obviously we want to assure that we have the best roster to compete at the highest levels. We'd have to ask Leo, but I think he knows we are doing everything possible."

"There is no tool that the league provides us that we have not used to better this roster: signing young players, finding other cracks. For next year, find another star player because we have the space in the roster.

"From our part, there is not much missing. There is no rush, we don't need to do it today or tomorrow, but soon we will know Messi's decision and hopefully we remain together for many more years."

A potential move to Saudi Arabia could see Messi team up with his long-standing rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al-Nassr. The future of the Portuguese forward was previously uncertain, but he recently signed a staggering new contract that runs until 2027.