AFP report this Tuesday morning that Lionel Messi (35) will play for a Saudi Arabian outfit next season following the expiry of his two-year contract with PSG. A Saudi source, who is close to the negotiations, told the French press agency that the contract Messi will sign is “huge“.
On Monday, L’Equipe reported that the 2022 World Cup winner with Argentina had an offer from the Gulf state, and the move was even discussed during his unauthorised trip to the country last week, for which he was suspended by PSG. He returned to training yesterday, following a public apology posted on his social media.
The contract being put forward to the former Barcelona man reportedly covers two seasons, including a potential optional third. This is the case with his PSG contract, although in this case the clause will not be triggered. He is set to earn a record-breaking salary, which has been estimated at between €500m and €600m. However, the former Barceolona man was reportedly still prioritising any offers that might come from Europe, as he wants to keep playing at the highest level until the 2024 Copa América.
Nevertheless, his departure for the kingdom is “a done deal. He will play in Saudi Arabia” the source said to AFP on condition of anonymity. The press agency contacted PSG, who replied that their player’s contract was due to end next month.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
