Report: Lionel Messi to Sign Inter Miami Contract, Be Highest-Paid MLS Player Ever

The Times is reporting that Lionel Messi will sign with Inter Miami after the World Cup in order to join MLS in the 2022-23 European season.

Messi has an option to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain for a second season. If he doesn't exercise that option, he will be free to sign with a new team in January and become the highest paid player in MLS history.

The presence of Inter Miami president and co-owner David Beckham has been reported to be a factor in the decision to join the club.

Times Sport @TimesSport

Beckham’s influence is said to be key to the deal – as an ambassador for the Qataris at the World Cup, he has a direct line to the PSG owners. The former England captain also has a relationship with Messi through their association with Adidas

Messi hasn't made a decision yet, according to a football reporter.

Fabrizio Romano @FabrizioRomano

Leo Messi has not decided his future yet. His camp guarantees that Leo is only focused on the World Cup and there’s no agreement with any club. 🚨🇦🇷 #MessiInter Miami want Messi and will push; but also PSG will offer Leo a new deal soon.

Messi’s decision will be made in 2023. pic.twitter.com/rXQ6bvZvLS

The 35-year-old Messi, currently representing Argentina at the World Cup, has continued to produce in the twilight of his career, with seven goals and 10 assists in Ligue 1 play and four goals and four assists in the European Championship.

He has given the team one of the most dangerous attacking units in the game.

The team may look to sign his former Barcelona teammates, Cesc Fbregas and Luis Surez, despite the fact that they are older than him.

Fbregas and Surez are playing for different clubs in Italy.

Busquets is a former teammate of mine.

Lionel Messi would be the biggest star to ever join the MLS, though the league has attracted top talents nearing the end of their careers in the past

It would be a huge coup for the MLS if Messi decided to finish his career with Inter Miami.