RIYADH: Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, the captain of the world champions Argentina, is reportedly on the verge of signing a historic transfer contract with Al-Hilal Club of Riyadh. Sources reveal that the signing ceremony will take place in Paris, with officials from the Saudi club currently present in the French capital, according to Okaz/Saudi Gazette.
The news of Messi’s potential move comes just a day after his formal announcement about his departure from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Sources indicate that Messi, a seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, is expected to travel to Riyadh within the next 48 hours to finalize the deal and make the official announcement after his arrival in the Saudi capital. However, the exact details regarding the value of the deal and Messi’s salary are yet to be finalized.
Earlier reports suggested that the Argentine superstar was considering a mega-deal worth $400 million per year from Al-Hilal when he leaves PSG this month. If this deal goes through, Messi would become the highest-paid athlete in the world, surpassing the earnings of Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr Club in January this year. Having two global football superstars competing in Saudi Arabia’s professional league tournaments would undoubtedly be a significant boost for the country.
Messi Confirm Departure from Paris Saint-Germain
In related news, Messi confirmed on Saturday that he will be departing from Paris Saint-Germain. Speaking to ESPN, he expressed his gratitude for his time at PSG, saying, “I am happy to have been able to represent PSG. I really enjoyed playing on this team and with such good players. I want to thank the club for a wonderful experience in Paris.”
The confirmation followed reports from transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, who revealed that Messi’s father and business agent, Jorge Horatio Messi, informed PSG that they would be moving on when Messi’s contract expires on June 30. PSG Coach Christophe Galtier also stated on Thursday that Messi would be leaving the club. Furthermore, PSG confirmed on Friday that Sergio Ramos would also be departing at the end of the season.
It is worth mentioning that Okaz/Saudi Gazette published an exclusive report on March 14 regarding Jorge Messi’s visit to Riyadh, where he made preparations for his son’s accommodation in the Saudi capital. Messi currently serves as a tourism ambassador for Saudi Arabia.
Last month, Messi and his family made an unauthorized visit to Riyadh, which reportedly played a role in expediting his exit from PSG. During their visit, Messi, his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children Ciro and Mateo were photographed enjoying various attractions in Riyadh and Diriyah.
