Lionel Messi, 37, ‘to sign new Inter Miami contract’ which would see Argentina legend lead MLS side in their new stadium

LIONEL MESSI is on the cusp of signing a bumper new contract with Inter Miami.

The Argentine legend joined the MLS side in 2023 and has since become the face of the league Stateside.

AFP

Lionel Messi is closing in on a new deal with Inter Miami[/caption]

Getty

The forward’s current contract runs out at the end of this year[/caption]

Instagram @intermiamicf

Inter Miami are due to move into their new £1bn home in 2026[/caption]

Messi, 37, joined as a free agent on a deal that expires at the end of this year.

But reports suggest the World Cup winner could be about to extend his stay in the Sunshine State.

The Athletic‘s David Ornstein claims Messi and Miami are “close to agreement” on a new contract.

It would see Messi commit his future to the MLS club, who won the Leagues Cup in 2024 and the Supporters Shield last season.

Miami managing owner Jorge Mas has handled the negotiations.

He told FDP Radio Miami: “The stars are aligning for something great, for a beautiful future for the club and for Lionel. It’s solely his decision.

“I expect that within 60-90 days we’ll have to determine all of this.

“My hope has always been – and everything we’re doing – is to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026. Hopefully, that happens.”

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Founded by David Beckham, the club are preparing to move to the $1billion Miami Freedom Park stadium from the 2026 season.

The new 25,000-seat complex is part of a wider 131-acre development.

Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has scored 42 goals in 48 games since joining Miami.

He has been credited with helping bring the MLS to new audiences.

And he will lead the team at the revamped Club World Cup this summer.

Miami have been drawn alongside Brazil’s Palmeiras, Portugal’s Porto and Egypt’s Al Ahly in Group A.