The football world is buzzing with speculation about a Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025, as Al-Ahli have launched an ambitious bid to sign the Argentine superstar from Inter Miami, potentially setting up a monumental reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League. With Messi’s contract expiring in December 2025, and no extension agreed despite a 12-month option, the 38-year-old is free to negotiate with foreign clubs. Al-Ahli’s move aims to rival Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr deal and elevate the league’s global profile ahead of the 2034 World Cup.
Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League Transfer 2025: A Blockbuster Ronaldo Reunion?
The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 rumor has gained momentum as Al-Ahli, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), initiated talks with Messi’s father and agent, Jorge Messi. The proposed contract could be worth $200 million per season, matching Ronaldo’s lucrative Al-Nassr deal. Al-Ahli’s pursuit follows earlier interest from Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Nassr, with fans on social media rallying behind the hashtag “#MessiToAhliJeddah.” The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 could see Messi join the Middle East in December 2025, setting the stage for high-profile clashes with Ronaldo, who extended his Al-Nassr contract until 2027.
Messi famously declined a €1.4 billion offer from Al-Hilal in 2023, choosing family life in Miami over financial incentives. However, with his Inter Miami contract nearing its end and no renewal finalized, Al-Ahli see an opportunity to lure the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. Social media posts reflect growing excitement, with fans suggesting Al-Ahli’s ambition could sway Messi. The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 hinges on whether a new challenge and massive financial package outweigh his contentment in Florida.
Messi’s Transformative Impact at Inter Miami
The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 speculation contrasts with his remarkable tenure at Inter Miami. Since joining in July 2023, Messi has redefined the club, amassing 50 goals and 24 assists in 60 matches, including a brace and an assist in a 4-1 win over CF Montreal on July 5, 2025 (memory: July 5, 2025). His achievements include the 2023 Leagues Cup, 2024 Supporters’ Shield, and MLS MVP award, cementing his role as the league’s premier ambassador. Inter Miami’s historic run in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, reaching the Round of 16 with a 2-1 victory over Porto, showcased Messi’s global influence, though a 4-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain highlighted MLS’s competitive limitations (memory: June 30, 2025).
Despite these successes, Inter Miami’s inconsistent season—currently sixth in the Eastern Conference with 32 points—has fueled transfer talk. Manager Javier Mascherano and co-owner Jorge Mas remain optimistic, with Mas stating, “I expect Lionel Messi to be our No. 10 in 2026.” Yet, with extension talks ongoing but not finalized, the Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 remains a viable possibility, especially if Messi seeks a more competitive environment.
The Messi-Ronaldo Rivalry Rekindled
The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 could reignite one of football’s greatest rivalries. Cristiano Ronaldo, who signed a new two-year deal with Al-Nassr worth $204 million annually, has scored 60 goals in 71 Saudi Pro League matches. Their iconic battles, defined by Clásico showdowns at Barcelona and Real Madrid, last saw them face off in a 2023 friendly, where Ronaldo scored twice in a 5-4 PSG defeat. A move to Al-Ahli would pit Messi against Ronaldo in thrilling Saudi Pro League derbies, boosting the league’s global appeal.
Social media is alight with anticipation, with fans posting, “Messi and Ronaldo in Saudi? The GOAT showdown is back!” Ronaldo’s recent performances, including a hat-trick in Al-Nassr’s 3-0 win over Al-Shabab, underline his enduring quality (memory: June 29, 2025). The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 could create a “GOAT reunion,” capitalizing on their combined 13 Ballon d’Or awards to draw unprecedented attention to Saudi football.
Saudi Arabia’s Football Ambitions
The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision to become a football powerhouse. The PIF, which funds Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Nassr, has attracted stars like Neymar, Karim Benzema, and Ronaldo, positioning Messi as the ultimate prize. Al-Hilal’s president recently met Jorge Messi in the U.S., signaling Saudi Arabia’s commitment. Messi’s role as a Saudi Tourism Board ambassador since 2022, tied to the 2030 World Cup bid, strengthens his connection to the region.
Financially, Al-Ahli’s offer could surpass Messi’s $674 million Barcelona contract from 2017, including a signing-on fee and performance bonuses. Unlike his 2023 decision to prioritize family over a $1.6 billion Al-Ittihad offer, the Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 could appeal as a final competitive challenge before the 2026 World Cup. Saudi Arabia’s investment in infrastructure, including Jeddah’s 45,000-seat King Abdullah Sports City, adds allure for Messi.
Inter Miami’s Fight to Retain Messi
The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 faces resistance from Inter Miami’s efforts to extend his contract. Reports indicate Miami are confident, with both parties interested in a deal through 2027, potentially worth $20 million annually with MLS Cup bonuses. Messi’s family, including wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their three sons, is settled in Florida, with Antonela endorsing brands like Tiffany and Adidas. The upcoming Freedom Park stadium, set for 2026, positions Messi as its centerpiece.
However, a four-match winless streak before the CF Montreal victory raised concerns, with critics like Zlatan Ibrahimović noting, “Messi plays with statues” (memory: June 30, 2025). The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 could tempt Messi if he prioritizes elite competition over MLS’s more relaxed environment, especially after Miami’s Club World Cup struggles.
World Cup 2026 Implications
The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 could significantly impact Messi’s preparation for his sixth World Cup. His 104 international goals, including 10 in the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League, make him indispensable for Argentina’s title defense. A move to Saudi Arabia would pit him against top players like Ronaldo and Neymar, offering a higher competitive level than MLS. Conversely, staying in Miami risks complacency, as seen in the PSG defeat, where Messi’s 17 final-third passes couldn’t overcome team weaknesses. The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 could ensure he’s at his peak for the 2026 tournament in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Fan and Media Reactions
The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 has ignited global excitement. Social media posts highlight Al-Ahli’s interest, with fans demanding “equality” with Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr deal. Miami supporters at Hard Rock Stadium chanted Messi’s name post-Montreal, but Saudi fans envision a historic rivalry revival. Media outlets call it a “sensational move,” with headlines labeling it a “GOAT reunion.” The buzz underscores the transformative potential of Messi joining Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia.
What’s Next?
The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 remains uncertain as Messi focuses on Inter Miami’s MLS campaign, with a match against New England Revolution on July 9, 2025. Negotiations with Al-Ahli and PIF are ongoing, with a decision expected by August. Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers resume in September, adding urgency to resolve his club future. A Barcelona return, despite interest from president Joan Laporta, seems unlikely due to past tensions.
Conclusion: A Historic Opportunity
The Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 could redefine football by reuniting Messi and Ronaldo in a new chapter of their storied rivalry. Al-Ahli’s blockbuster offer challenges Messi’s satisfaction in Miami, where he’s won titles but faced competitive limits. With the 2026 World Cup looming, a Saudi move could sharpen his edge, benefiting Argentina and thrilling fans worldwide. Will Messi join Ronaldo in the Middle East? Share your thoughts on the Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League transfer 2025 below!
🚨🇦🇷 Al Ahli have entered talks to sign Leo Messi (38) — the Saudi club would like to sign him in December, once his contract expires with Inter Miami, reports @Tanziloic/@lequipe! 🟢⚡️ pic.twitter.com/ppW6Vhip70
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) July 7, 2025
FAQs: Lionel Messi Saudi Pro League Transfer 2025
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What is Al-Ahli’s offer for Messi?
Al-Ahli have proposed a $200 million-per-season deal to sign Messi in December 2025. -
Why is Messi’s Inter Miami contract uncertain?
His contract expires in December 2025, and no extension has been finalized, allowing foreign clubs to negotiate. -
How would Messi and Ronaldo reunite in Saudi Arabia?
Messi at Al-Ahli would face Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in Saudi Pro League derbies, reviving their rivalry. -
What has Messi achieved at Inter Miami?
He won the 2023 Leagues Cup, 2024 Supporters’ Shield, and MLS MVP, with 50 goals in 60 games. -
What’s next for Messi’s club future?
He plays New England on July 9, 2025, with a transfer decision expected by August.
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